Family: Anacardiaceae

Rhus sandwicensis, commonly known as neneleau, is a small endemic tree in the family Anacardiaceae. It is the only member of the mango family native to Hawaiʻi and occurs naturally on Kauaʻi, Oʻahu, Molokaʻi, Maui, and Hawaiʻi Island. Although widespread, it is most abundant on Hawaiʻi Island, particularly in the Hilo and Hāmākua districts.

Neneleau is distinguished by its compound leaves, erect creamy-white inflorescences, and, most notably, its striking red liko—the colorful young leaflets that emerge at the tips of new growth. Like many members of the cashew family, it exudes a milky sap when injured. Its fruit, a single-seeded drupe, ripens in late fall to early winter. Despite being uncommon in cultivation, neneleau is an attractive species with strong ornamental potential. However, landscapers and gardeners should be aware that the tree readily produces suckers, which may interfere with nearby plantings.

Ecologically, Rhus sandwicensis is not just a tree, but a key player in the recovery and maintenance of native forests. Its adaptability to colonizing disturbed or fallow areas makes it a valuable asset in landscapes impacted by Rapid ʻŌhiʻa Death. In places such as Keauʻohana Forest Reserve, where canopy openings created by dying ʻōhiʻa have facilitated invasive plant growth, neneleau is being outplanted in hopes that its rapid growth will help fill light gaps and support the regeneration of additional native species. According to JB Friday, it has also been used successfully to reforest former sugarcane fields.

Cultivation:

Collect ripe fruits and clean the single seeds. Sow them in a well-draining medium, such as a mixture of cinder, perlite, and peat moss, and cover lightly with a mixture of peat moss and cinder. Germination typically occurs within one to three months. Seedlings can be transplanted once three true leaves have developed.

Plant Uses:

• Container plant
• Cultural significance
• Edible
• Erosion control
• Hedge
• Ornamental
• Privacy / screening
• Specimen
• Woodworking

Plant Dangers:

• No dangers