Lama

Lama (*Diospyros sandwicensis*) is an evergreen tree native to Hawaiʻi, where it occurs in dry, mesic, and wet forest habitats. It can develop a broad canopy and bear yellow to orange-red fruit, making it a useful native shade or specimen tree where ample space is available. ## Landscape & Siting The [Native Plants Hawaiʻi profile](https://nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plants/diospyros-sandwicensis/) gives a typical height of 15–30 ft and spread greater than 20 ft, with full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil. The species grows across several main Hawaiian islands, and its final size reflects local conditions. It is slow-growing and is not suited to long-term container culture. ## Flowers & Fruit Small waxy greenish-white to pink flowers may appear intermittently through the year. Female trees produce edible fruit that ripens yellow to reddish orange; fruiting is seasonal rather than continuous. The [Hawaiʻi Department of Land and Natural Resources](https://dlnr.hawaii.gov/forestry/plants/lama/) describes lama as a native forest tree and documents its traditional uses. ## Maintenance Provide room for the mature crown and avoid persistently wet soil. Once established, the tree tolerates dry periods and wind, but [Native Plants Hawaiʻi](https://nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plants/diospyros-sandwicensis/) recommends monthly watering during dry months. Water young trees while they establish, then reduce supplemental irrigation according to rainfall and site conditions. Prune only as needed to remove damaged or poorly placed branches.