With a climate unlike the rest of the United States, the Hawaiian Islands are home to some of the country’s most unique gardens. From cactus gardens to those hidden in plain sight, they feature thousands of species of tropical plants, and flora indigenous to the islands. And while these gardens are all truly unique in their own way, there is a giant monkeypod tree in Hawaii–hiding in a garden on the island of Oahu–that generates nearly half a million dollars in revenue. And people still say that money doesn’t grow on trees! Ha! Let’s take a look at this expensive tree and get the full scoop.

The Monkeypod is both stately and iconic.
Wendy Cutler/Flickr
It is easily one of the islands’ most cherished trees, enhancing landscapes and city streets, providing shade from the tropical heat, and serving as a constant reminder of Hawaii’s natural history.
The tree can grow up to 80 feet in height...
Owen and Aki/Flickr
...and it was believed to have arrived in Hawaii in the mid-1800s.
While you will find these unique trees across the Hawaiian Islands, you’ll find the largest one in Oahu.
Patricia Barden/Flickr
It is situated in the Moanalua Gardens. It covers more than an acre, and is quite the sight to behold.

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Japanese electronics corporation Hitachi agrees.
frontriver/Flickr
This towering, century-old monkeypod tree has served as the company’s advertising logo since 1975. How's that for corporate branding?
In fact, it is one of the most widely recognized corporate icons in Asia, as demonstrated by the busloads of Japanese tourists who visit the iconic tree every single day.
Photos from Japan, Asia and othe of the world/Moment Open via Getty Images
It's so well-known, in fact, that many people from Japan learn the Hitachi advertising jingle as children.
And while the exact terms of the contract have not been disclosed, rumor has it that the current contract is similar to a previous ten-year pact in which Hitachi paid approximately $400,000 a year to use the monkeypod tree in its advertisements! And who said money doesn’t grow on trees?
Khn McMahon/Flickr
In case you don't know the overall history about these beautiful trees, they are also found in other parts of the Pacific Islands, South America, Central America, South and Southeast Asia, and other parts of the world. But it was made world famous here in Hawaii.

Moanalua Gardens is located at 2850 Moanalua Road A, Honolulu, HI 96819, and is worth a visit if you haven’t been! Have you ever visited this stately monkeypod tree? If so, what was your first impression? We’d love to read about your experience in the comments section below!

For more natural growth adventures, take a look at this article sharing the virtues of these 16 incredible botanical gardens in Hawaii.

If you’re still in the mood for more Aloha State adventures, take a look at this video:

 

 

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More to Explore

Out and about in Hawaii

Lysa Allman-Baldwin | April 30, 2023

Where can we enjoy annual festivals in Hawaii?

  • The Made in Hawaii Festival on the Big Island showcases a wide array of products made in Hawaii, including art, food, books, gifts, and more.
  • The Hawaii Food and Wine Festival on Oahu is an annual favorite for locals and visitors alike.
  • The Festivals of Aloha on Maui are true community celebrations featuring a royal court, entertainment, dances, and more.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other exciting annual festivals in Hawaii.

Where can we find Airbnbs in Hawaii?

  • The Tropical Beach Getaway Airbnb in Koloa is surrounded by breathtaking mountain views and lush, tropical foliage, and has a putting green and a pond.
  • The Dreamy Tropical Tree House Airbnb on the Big Island is one of the most coveted Airbnbs in the world for its dramatic forest setting.
  • The Artistic Hobbit House Airbnb in Keaau is an off-the-grid home featuring solar power in a beautiful forest setting.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other fantastic Airbnbs in Hawaii.

Where can we find waterfalls in Hawaii?

  • Manoa Falls is approximately 150 feet tall and accessible via a short 1.6-mile hike.
  • The Waipuhia Falls are also known as the Upside Down Waterfall because it looks as though it is suspended upside down.
  • The Lulumahu Falls is accessible via a hike that passes by a lush, verdant jungle, bamboo forest, and a reservoir.

Read on to learn more about some of the many other beautiful waterfalls in Hawaii.

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