Mānoa Heritage Center

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Lonomea

Sapindus oahuensis

Endemic

Native to Kaua‘i and O‘ahu, Lonomea is very rarely seen in the wild. We are grateful it has found a liking to MHC, since it is accustomed to the mesic forest. As a member of the soapberry family, the fruit of this tree can be a soap substitute, when crushed and mixed with water. Its hard wood would probably have been used for appropriate needs. The black seeds are medicinal and can be strung into lei.

other names: Āulu, Kaulu

common names: O‘ahu soapberry