Wili Wili

Description

A tree found in the dryland forests, Wili Wili was valued because of its porous and buoyant wood. The wood was used for surfboards and traditional canoe outriggers. The Wili Wili lei is made from the glossy yellow or orange seeds. This tree is hardy, adapted to survive in the dryland forest ecosystem. Wili Wili is now highly endangered as a result of the decline of the dryland forest beginning with Sandalwood harvesting, the introduction of cattle, sheep and goats, and more recently the impact of gall wasp infestations. Reforestation efforts by organizations like the Waikoloa Dry Forest Initiative may be the last hope for the survival of this tree.