Pengua (Macaranga mappa): A Fast-Growing Tropical Shade Tree for Hawaiian Gardens
If you’re looking for a quick-growing shade tree for your Hawaiian landscape, you might have come across the pengua tree, also known as bingabing. This tropical beauty has made quite a home for itself in the islands, though it originally hails from much farther away. Let’s dive into what makes this tree tick and whether it deserves a spot in your garden.
What Is Pengua?
Pengua (Macaranga mappa) is a fast-growing tropical tree that can reach impressive heights of 13-16 feet or more. As a perennial woody plant with a single trunk, it develops into a substantial shade tree with broad, heart-shaped leaves that create a lush canopy. While it’s become well-established in Hawaiian landscapes, pengua is actually a non-native species that was introduced from Southeast Asia, where it naturally grows in countries like Malaysia and Indonesia.
Where You’ll Find Pengua
Today, pengua grows throughout Hawaii, where it has adapted so well that it reproduces on its own in the wild. The tree has found the Hawaiian climate much to its liking, thriving in the warm, humid conditions that remind it of its Southeast Asian homeland.
Why Consider Pengua for Your Landscape?
There are several reasons why gardeners might be drawn to this tropical tree:
- Fast growth: If you need shade quickly, pengua delivers
- Large canopy: Those broad leaves create excellent shade coverage
- Tropical appeal: Adds that lush, jungle-like feel to landscapes
- Adaptable: Tolerates various growing conditions
Growing Conditions and Care
Pengua is surprisingly adaptable for a tropical tree. It can handle both wetland and non-wetland conditions (what botanists call facultative), making it versatile for different landscape situations. The tree thrives in USDA hardiness zones 10-12, which means it needs consistently warm temperatures year-round.
For successful growth, provide:
- Warm, humid conditions
- Regular watering, especially when young
- Well-draining soil (though it adapts to various soil types)
- Protection from strong winds when establishing
Planting and Care Tips
Pengua is relatively low-maintenance once established. Here’s how to give it the best start:
- Plant in a location with plenty of space for the mature canopy
- Water regularly during the first few years to establish strong roots
- Minimal pruning needed – just remove dead or damaged branches
- Watch for rapid growth and plan accordingly
Wildlife and Pollinator Benefits
While pengua produces flowers that can attract insects, its primary contribution to the ecosystem is providing shade and shelter rather than being a major pollinator plant.
Something to Consider
While pengua isn’t listed as invasive, it is a non-native species that has naturalized in Hawaii. If you’re passionate about supporting native Hawaiian ecosystems, you might want to consider indigenous alternatives like:
- Kukui (Aleurites moluccanus) – Hawaii’s state tree
- Hala (Pandanus tectorius) – distinctive tropical native
- Wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis) – beautiful native with coral-colored flowers
The Bottom Line
Pengua can be a practical choice for gardeners needing fast-growing shade in tropical climates. Its adaptability and quick growth make it useful for certain landscape situations. However, if you’re looking to support native Hawaiian flora, exploring indigenous alternatives might better serve both your garden goals and local conservation efforts. Whatever you choose, make sure it fits your space, climate, and gardening philosophy!
