Aloha ,
The banyan tree in Lahaina (located on the west side of Maui where the most intense fires destroyed the town) has come to symbolize HOPE for the people of Maui.
The Lahaina Banyan tree is the oldest and largest one of its kind in the United States. It was planted in 1873 by William Owen Smith, a Maui sheriff, to mark the 50th anniversary of the first Protestant Mission in Lahaina. The tree was 8 feet tall when it was planted and was a gift from missionaries in India. Banyan trees are unique because over time they send roots down from their branches, which then grow into additional trunks,
creating a huge canopy.
This particular tree had grown to cover an entire city block and essentially created it's own forest!
The Hawaii State Arborist, Steve Nimz, has
shared that he and his team have examined every trunk from top to bottom, and he sees live tissue under the bark on every trunk. They are soaking the base of the tree and also watering it's branches from above daily, aerating the soil and nourishing it with compost tea, fertilizer and mulch and taking soil samples.
The tree is low on sap and is in a "coma" like state. Steve is optimistic that with proper care, the tree may show signs of life (new leaves) within 3 or 4 months. They will be listening to what the tree is saying to assist in caring for her.
This is a great reel that shows the beauty of the Lahaina banyan tree before the
fire.
Like the tree, the community of Maui needs to be lovingly cared for. Keep sending love, prayers and healing energy to the Valley Isle. If you feel called to do more, a couple close friends of mine are helping with efforts "on the ground" - one runs the kitchen at Hungry Heroes Hawaii, which is providing healthy vegan, organic meals and another is gathering supplies (if you want to send something, let me know and I can connect you with Elaine.)