Lonomea (Sapindus oahuensis) is a tree belonging to the soapberry family and can grow upwards of 20-50 feet tall – growing about 1-2 feet per year. It’s endemic to Hawai’i and only found on the islands of Kaua’i and Oʻahu. It can be found in dry and moist environments from 200-2000 feet in elevation. This plant grows in full to partial sun and is drought tolerant, so it does not require a lot of water, especially once it gets established. It grows best when provided with some slow-release fertilizer.

The wood of lonomea has been used to carve spears and make other various tools. It has hard, black seeds that have been used both medicinally and in making a permanent lei.