One of our favorite fruits at Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden? The banana! 🍌 Known scientifically as Musa spp. and in Hawaiian as Mai‘a, this tropical treasure is more than just a tasty snack. Did you know the part we eat is actually the fruit, while the striking flower (the “banana heart”) grows at the end of the stalk? Polynesians brought bananas to Hawai‘i centuries ago as part of their canoe plants, and they’ve been a beloved staple ever since. We love them—sweet, versatile, and totally p

Step into the Hawai‘i Tropical Botanical Garden and wander trails overflowing with life. From towering palms, orchids, and gingers to streams carrying rainwater all the way to the ocean, every corner is alive with movement, color, and energy. Look closely and you’ll discover the hidden creatures and plants that make this rainforest extraordinary—fish, crabs, butterflies, birds, algae, and so much more. Every living thing here is part of a vibrant ecosystem, thriving thanks to nature’s lifeblood:

12 Hawaiian Ukulele Songs for Beginners (Chords Included) - Uke Like The Pros Blog