With their throngs of trunks and massive canopies capable of supporting entire ecosystems, Hawaii’s banyan trees are like forests unto themselves. With proper care and specialized tree maintenance, they can live for hundreds of years, eventually growing to cover several acres of land. If you want to plant a banyan on your property, below are some factors you should know about these unique trees.

What Are Banyan Trees?

A banyan is a type of fig tree, but unlike other species, it grows from the top down. When a seed is dropped on another tree, the sprouts travel downward, eventually smothering the host in thick vines that form a strong, sturdy trunk. As the tree grows, vines fall toward the earth, eventually becoming additional trunks that support the tree as they grow outward.

Planting New Banyan Trees

In the wild, banyan trees are only pollinated by a single species of wasp that breed inside their fruit. Banyan trees are native to India, so these wasps don’t exist in Hawaii and on other continents. If you’re thinking of growing a banyan, the best approach is to hire an arborist to plant and nurture a cutting.

Banyan Tree Maintenance

The same quality that makes banyan trees so special also requiresd keeping a close eye on your tree growth. If not carefully pruned, a banyan can grow to cover several houses and put down roots over power lines and other utilities. Keeping a banyan healthy while maintaining a manageable size calls for the expertise of a tree maintenance professional who understands their growth patterns.

With over 20 years’ experience serving homeowners and government agencies throughout the Big Island, Arborist Services knows what it takes to keep your trees healthy. Every employee is an ISA-certified arborist with the knowledge and resources to handle even the largest project. Visit their website for an overview of their tree maintenance services, or call (808) 895-6537 to request a free estimate.