Nanu

Nanu Description

The Nanu (Gardenia manii) tree is actually a member of the Gardenia family. While most Gardenias fall into the Shrubs and Bushes category, the Nanu is actually a small tree. It is a coffee tree that is native to Hawaii, particularly the islands Kaua'i, Maui, Moloka'i, and Hawai'i. It is also referred to as the Na'u.

Nanu can grow up to 50 feet tall. Their leaves are lancelot to elliptic is shape and the flowers are small and creamy-white colored.

The only natural threats to the Nanu plant are Strawberry Guava, which are invasive and prevent native plants from growing, and feral pigs.

The Nanu tree is considered endangered, due to it's isolation and rarity on the islands.