Also known as Oahu Soapberry
Lonomea (Sapindus oahuensis) is an endemic Hawaiian tree known for its lustrous fruits, historically used for soap and adornment.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun to thrive and produce abundant flowers and fruit.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, allowing top layer to dry between waterings.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Warm
75% intensity
Thrives in warm temperatures, ideally between 20-30°C. Protect from frost.
Light
25% intensity
Fertilize annually in spring with a balanced, slow-release formula.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Sapindus oahuensis prefers consistently moist soil, especially during its active growth phase. Allow the top few centimeters of soil to dry out between waterings.
Reduce watering frequency during cooler months to prevent waterlogged conditions. Ensure good drainage to avoid root rot.
Pruning is generally minimal for Sapindus oahuensis, focusing on removing dead, damaged, or crossing branches. This can be done anytime, but late winter or early spring before new growth begins is ideal.
Pruning helps maintain the tree's structure and health.
Sapindus oahuensis can be propagated from seed, which requires scarification and a period of stratification to break dormancy. Stem cuttings can also be taken from mature plants, typically during the growing season, and treated with rooting hormone.
Young Sapindus oahuensis trees may require repotting every 2-3 years to accommodate root growth. Use a well-draining potting mix. Mature trees are best left undisturbed in their containers or planted in situ.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Lonomea (Sapindus oahuensis)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Sapindales |
| Family | Sapindaceae |
| Genus | Sapindus |
| Species | Sapindus oahuensis |
Similar in genus Sapindus
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
