Coconut Trees on Germaine's Luau Grounds

Coconut- Niu (hawaiian translation)

The coconut tress here at Germaine's Luau has so much history to them. Before Germaine's Luau acquired the site, the Stephenson family resided at the property. Each coconut tree planted represented a family member. They had done this in order to ensure that the family would be forever united and always remain Keiki o Ka ʻAina (children of the land). Since the trees represent different generations, you will see that the heights of the trees vary.

Germaine's Luau ensures that the coconut trees are well-maintained and remain where they were originally placed. Unfortunately, one of the trees that the Stephenson family would light up at Christmas needed to be removed. The trees on stage belong to family members who are alive and live on Oahu.

There are over 100 coconut trees on Germaine's property and considered the largest centrally located concentration of coconut palm trees in one area.

Historically, coconut trees are not native to the Hawaiian Islands. The trees were originally brought to the islands by the Polynesian settlers. They came to the islands with coconuts for food and propagated the plants on the islands.

Coconuts provide water, milk, meat and their husk can be used to keep fire ignited. They also provide nutrients such as vitamin B, vitamin C, calcium, iron, potassium, and zinc.

Coconut palm trees are grown very easily. The weather of the islands is perfect for the trees to grow in. They need to be watered, but not where they are constantly wet. Hawaii's weather varies from hot and humid to wet and rainy.

The main concern with coconut trees is how tall they grow. This makes pruning the trees very difficult. Some locals are skilled at climbing trees, but it is extremely dangerous to attempt. Falling coconuts is also a concern, 150 people a year are killed by falling coconuts. Germaine's constantly maintains their trees for safety.

A common local coconut dessert is haupia, a traditional dessert since the 1940s. Traditionally the dessert was made with coconut milk and a type of starch. The modernized recipe uses coconut milk, sugar and cornstarch. The simple dessert is a staple in a common Hawaiian meal. The dessert or snack is similar to jello and pudding.