A wiliwili tree, Erythrina sandwicensis, from Hawaii Island has been selected as a national champion in the American Forest’s Big Tree Program, according to the state Department of Land and Natural Resources.
The tree, located in the Waikoloa Dry Forest, has a trunk circumference of 186.96 inches, an average crownspread of 43.50 feet, and height of 40 feet. It was nominated by Jen Lawson of the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative.
For more than 70 years, the National Big Tree Program has invited arboreal enthusiasts to locate the largest trees of their species for the title of Big Tree Champion. By calling attention to these iconic trees, the program raises awareness of the numerous ecosystem benefits they provide.
Hawaii currently has 21 eligible species. For more information and nomination instructions, visit dlnr.hawaii.gov/forestry/info/big-tree or americanforests.org/our-programs/bigtree.