Makawao Melicope: A Hawaiian Tree on the Brink of Extinction
If you’re passionate about native Hawaiian plants, you’ve probably never heard of the Makawao melicope (Melicope obovata) – and there’s a heartbreaking reason for that. This endemic Hawaiian tree represents one of the islands’ most critically endangered plant species, serving as a sobering reminder of what we stand to lose when native ecosystems face pressure.
What is the Makawao Melicope?
The Makawao melicope is a perennial tree that belongs to Hawaii’s native flora. As a member of the citrus family (Rutaceae), it shares relatives with more familiar plants, though this Hawaiian endemic developed its own unique characteristics over thousands of years of isolation in the Pacific.
This species was historically known by the botanical synonym Pelea obovata, but today we recognize it as Melicope obovata. The tree typically grows as a single-trunked specimen, potentially reaching heights of 13 to 16 feet or more under ideal conditions, though environmental factors can sometimes result in shorter, multi-stemmed growth forms.
Where Does It Come From?
The Makawao melicope is endemic to Hawaii, meaning it exists nowhere else on Earth naturally. Historically, this rare tree was found specifically on the island of Maui, where it likely grew in the island’s native forest ecosystems.
The Conservation Crisis
Here’s where the story becomes urgent: the Makawao melicope has a Global Conservation Status of SH, which stands for Possibly Extirpated. This devastating classification means the species is known only from historical records, with botanists holding onto hope that somewhere in Hawaii’s remote forests, a few individuals might still survive undiscovered.
This isn’t just another rare plant – it’s a species that may have already vanished forever from our planet.
Should You Try to Grow Makawao Melicope?
The short answer is: you almost certainly can’t, and you shouldn’t try unless you’re working with legitimate conservation organizations. Given its possibly extinct status, any authentic Makawao melicope material would be incredibly precious and should only be handled by qualified botanists and conservation specialists.
If you’re interested in supporting Hawaiian native plant conservation:
- Connect with reputable Hawaiian botanical gardens and conservation organizations
- Support native plant restoration efforts in Hawaii
- Consider growing other endangered (but still available) Hawaiian native species
- Advocate for habitat protection in Hawaii’s remaining native forests
Growing Conditions (If Material Ever Becomes Available)
Should conservation efforts somehow recover this species, the Makawao melicope would likely require very specific conditions that mirror its native Hawaiian forest habitat:
- USDA Hardiness Zones 10-11 (tropical conditions only)
- Well-draining soil similar to Hawaiian forest conditions
- Partial shade to filtered sunlight
- Consistent moisture without waterlogging
- Protection from strong winds
The Bigger Picture
The story of the Makawao melicope isn’t just about one tree – it’s about the incredible diversity of life that evolved in isolation on the Hawaiian Islands, and how quickly we can lose irreplaceable species. Hawaii has lost more plant species to extinction than any other U.S. state, making every remaining native species precious.
While you may never have the chance to grow a Makawao melicope in your garden, you can honor its memory by supporting native plant conservation, choosing native species for your landscape when possible, and spreading awareness about the importance of protecting the unique flora that makes each region special.
Sometimes the most important plants aren’t the ones we can grow, but the ones that remind us what we have to lose.
