Hawaii is such a diverse and unique area that it is said to be a biologist's paradise. Biologists travel here to study the wide variety of species and one such species is Aleurites moluccana or kukui tree. The kukui tree is native to Southeast Asia, particularly the Indo-Malaysia region, and has spread to the Pacific. It was first introduced to the Hawaiian Islands when the Polynesians arrived here hundreds of years ago (Elevitch, CR, & Manner, HI, 2006). Since then, the kukui tree's physical adaptations have helped it thrive in Hawaii, and native Hawaiians have been able to use this plant in several ways. First, the kukui tree is easily recognized by its unique physical characteristics. Simply based on its size, the tree can grow up to 80 feet with trunks three feet in diameter. Furthermore, the tree is very distinctive due to its silver-green leaves that darken with age (World Agroforestry). These size and color characteristics are very distinguishable from a distance but that is not all the tree has to offer. The nuts hidden within the leaves only grow to about two inches in diameter but are still distinguishable. Additionally, the tree contains small clusters of flowers, but these are more difficult to notice (World Agroforestry). These characteristics are attributed to the appearance of the plant but, more importantly, they serve some adaptive purpose. Additionally, the physical characteristics of the kukui tree have all contributed, in some way, to its adaptation here in Hawaii. The kukui tree is such a hardy and adaptive species because it can be commonly found in various parts of Hawaii. It is able to grow in a variety of conditions such as different types of soil, a pH of 5-8, being able... middle of paper... The oil contained in the walnut was highly prized because it burns very well and the nut itself would be used as a candle. This is why the kukui tree is known as the candle tree (White). This plant has such a wide range of uses that it must have made it very valuable to the native Hawaiians. All in all, the kukui tree has flourished in Hawaii due to its physical adaptations and has proven to be a valuable resource. The tree's unique characteristics are what sets it apart from other plants found around the islands. It is also these characteristics that make it biologically successful for growing and reproducing efficiently. Furthermore, the native Hawaiians used this plant to the fullest, making use of every single part of the plant. The kukui tree is a great example of successful adaptation here in Hawaii and will continue to flourish for a long time.