*JULY 2025 UPDATE AT THE BOTTOM OF THIS BLOG!*
Imagine standing in the heart of Lahaina, Maui, where a silent giant stands watch. It’s not a building or a statue—it’s the Lahaina Banyan Tree, a symbol of the island’s past and spirit. This great banyan stands at the center of Banyan Tree Park, with branches that spread across almost an entire city block.
The 150-year-old wonder isn’t just the oldest and largest banyan tree in Hawaii; it’s also the largest in the United States! Picture its vast canopy, supported by a curtain of aerial roots that cascade down like natural tapestries. Planted in 1873, this banyan tree has lived through storms, celebrations, and times of sadness, standing as a silent witness to Lahaina’s story.
Almost a year ago, after being damaged by the Maui fires, the Maui Banyan tree is showing signs of regrowth. Read this blog to see how the tree shows resilience, brings the community together, and stands as a sign of hope for the future.
The Origins of the Lahaina Banyan Tree
The story of the Lahaina Banyan Tree is deeply intertwined with Maui’s history. Missionaries from India gave the tree to Maui to honor the 50th anniversary of the first American Protestant mission. This gesture of friendship and cultural exchange would forever leave its mark on the landscape of Lahaina.
Sheriff William Owen Smith planted the young sapling on April 24, 1873, when it stood just 8 feet tall. Over the years, it has grown into a sprawling grove of trees connected by aerial roots, reaching an impressive height of over 60 feet.
The banyan tree, Ficus benghalensis, is native to India and is honored for its long life and spiritual meaning. Because of how it grows, people often call it the “strangler fig.” Its aerial roots drop from the branches, take root in the ground, and form new trunks that hold up the spreading canopy.
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A Beloved Gathering Place
Over the years, the banyan tree in Maui has become a beloved gathering place for locals and tourists alike. Its wide branches provide shade from the Hawaiian sun, and the canopy forms a natural gathering place for events, festivals, and celebrations.
The tree’s massive size and unusual growth have made it a favorite for photographers and artists. Its web of roots growing and branches fascinates visitors, who often marvel at how it creates its own ecosystem. The banyan provides shelter for birds, insects, and other wildlife.
The Lahaina Restoration Foundation and other groups have worked to protect the tree and keep it central to Lahaina’s culture. Before the 2023 Maui Fires, the Lahaina Banyan Tree was the site of many events and celebrations through the years.
Historic Events:
• King Kamehameha III’s Birthday Celebration: The tree has witnessed historical celebrations, including a grand party for the Hawaiian monarch.
• 150th Birthday Celebration (April 22, 2023): The tree’s landmark anniversary was celebrated with festivities coinciding with Earth Day.
Annual Events:
• Lighting of the Banyan Tree (December): This is a cherished holiday tradition in which the tree glows with thousands of lights, set to music and community celebrations.
• Halloween Costume Contest: A fun-filled event for both children and adults, taking place on a stage overlooking the tree.
• Banyan Tree Art Festivals: Previously held under the tree, these festivals, showcasing local artists, have now moved to the Lahaina Cannery Mall.
Other Events:
• Obon Festivals: Japanese Buddhist festivals honoring ancestors often take place around the tree.
• Block Parties: Community gatherings with music, food, and activities are sometimes held in the park surrounding the tree.
• Dance Performances: The tree’s natural amphitheater provides a scenic backdrop for various dance performances.
Photo Courtesy of Lahaina News
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A Symbol of Resilience in the Face of Tragedy
In August 2023, wildfires swept through Lahaina, devastating the town and leaving widespread destruction. The Maui Banyan Tree, which stood at the heart of the town, was severely scorched by the flames, losing about 40% of its structure. Many feared that the tree, which had witnessed so much history, would not survive the inferno.
However, true to its nature, the banyan tree Maui proved to be a symbol of resilience. While its leaves were burned and its branches blackened, the tree’s core remained strong. Thanks to groups like the Lahaina Treecovery Project and the Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), the tree is starting to recover. New leaves are sprouting, and an irrigation system now provides steady water to its canopy and roots.
Photo Courtesy of MauiNow
Lahaina Banyan Tree Update
The survival of the Banyan Tree has given the community hope as they rebuild their lives and town. Its ability to endure and regrow is a reminder that even in hardship, renewal is possible.
As of July 28, 2024, the 150-year-old Lahaina Banyan Tree is showing clear signs of recovery after the Maui wildfires:
• Pruning: Crews cut at least 40% of the tree that was severely damaged.
• Watering: Stepping stones were removed to allow more water into the soil.
• Nursing: Volunteers, arborists, and experts have helped the tree grow new leaves that are almost seven feet long.
• Sensors: Solar-powered sensors have been attached to the tree to measure its expansion as sap moves through its bark.
• Aerial roots: Vertical pipes have been installed to feed the aerial roots and help the tree absorb more nutrients faster.
• Birds: Evidence of bird droppings indicates that birds are nesting in and near the tree.
Visiting the Maui Banyan Tree
For those visiting Maui, a trip to see the banyan tree in Lahaina is a must. Its historical significance, unique structure, and cultural importance make it a truly special landmark. As the tree recovers and grows, it stands as a symbol of Lahaina’s strength and unity. It reminds us that even in hard times, the human spirit—like the banyan tree—can endure, adapt, and thrive.
PLEASE CONSIDER DONATING TO THE LAHAINA RECOVERY EFFORTS!
Resources:
Lahaina Banyan Tree Update – catch a glimpse of the historic tree’s recovery in this video.
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April 2025 Lahaina Banyan Tree Update!
We’re continuing to see a lot of growth!
Photo Courtesy of Lahaina Strong on Facebook
July 2025 Lahaina Banyan Tree Update!
As of July 2025, Lahaina’s historic Banyan Tree, though reduced in size, is alive and actively regenerating. With steady care through watering, pruning, and soil work—and with new roots and leaves—the tree stands as a symbol of healing for the community. 🌱
Photo Courtesy of Maui Hawaii on Facebook
Check out our blog on Lahaina Today to see the progress made two years ago. According to KHON2, the Banyan Tree Park could open within several months! The tree provides shade to surfers and visitors, which is needed to escape the hot Maui sun.
