With a climate unlike the rest of the United States, we would argue that the Hawaiian Islands are home to the most breathtaking tropical flora imaginable. And while you will find stunning botanical gardens across the Aloha State that are always worthy of a visit, there is one bloom in particular that transforms our island home into an epic paradise to be enjoyed from, well, nearly everywhere you go — whether you’re hanging out at home looking through a window or battling traffic on the H1 freeway.
Signaling the start of spring in a state that doesn’t have much seasonal differentiation, the bloom of the golden trumpet trees is one of our favorite times of the year here on the island of Oahu.
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Without much warning at all, formerly barren branches are emboldened in a sea of golden yellow — only to fall to the sidewalk below just days (sometimes weeks) later.
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Luckily for us, the trees bloom more than once a year, and because every tree seems to be on a slightly different schedule, the island enjoys months of vibrant flowering trees lining the streets with gold starting in late winter and extending into early summer.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
Ranging in height from 60 to 100 feet at maturity with canopies spreading as far as 50 to 75 feet wide, these beautiful trees are actually more than one species, all with similar yellow flowers: the gold, golden trumpet, and silver trumpet trees.
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The trees are recommended for planting by the Department of Planning and Permitting, and with Mayor Kirk Caldwell committing to planting 100,000 new trees in Honolulu by 2025, you just might see an even bigger sea of yellow flowers in years to come.
Chie Gondo/Flickr
Though not indigenous to the islands, the trees provide some major benefits in addition to beautifying Oahu: the trees are naturally resistant to gall wasps and their small trunk size is perfect for residential planting.
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
The next time you find yourself strolling through your neighborhood or driving in Honolulu, take the opportunity to admire the unique beauty of the common trees that make this island paradise even more beautiful.
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So, tell us, are there golden trumpet trees planted in your neighborhood? If so, hop on over to our Hawaii Nature Lovers Facebook group, request access, and share your stunning yellow flower photos with us.
Chie Gondo/Flickr
Megan Shute/OnlyInYourState.com
Forest and Kim Starr/Flickr
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Address: O‘ahu, Hawaii, USA
