The Milo is an interesting tree, its botanical name, Thespesia populnea, means “divine." A member of the hibiscus family, the bell-shaped Milo flower is pale yellow with a maroon center that blooms for just one day, then closes and becomes a seed pod as shown in this drawing.
The pods dry brittle into papery capsules, opening at maturity, releasing about seven seeds that grow quickly and easily. Lamp oil has been made from the seeds.
The tree thrives on sandy coastal and volcanic soils and has a curved trunk and a large 30-foot spread that creates shade, windbreak, and shelter.
Ancient Hawaiians carved the beautiful dark heartwood of the Milo tree into canoes, food bowls, poi calabashes, platters and dishes, tools, and utensils. Milo wood remains easy to work with, has a smooth natural finish, and is durable.
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