Hawaii is famous for its volcanoes, luaus, surfing, and miles of gorgeous beaches. As a first-time visitor, you might be surprised to learn that macadamia nuts are ubiquitously available in grocery stores, restaurants, and local farms throughout the islands. Here’s some trivia about the prevalence of macadamia nut plantations in Hawaii.

What You Should Know About Macadamia Nuts in Hawaii

1. The Trees Were Originally Ornamental

Macadamia nuts trees originate in Australia. William Purvis, an investor and plant collector, brought them to the Big Island after a trip to Melbourne in 1881. He planted them along his sugar cane fields to make the landscape more aesthetically pleasing, unaware that they would be ideal for nut production. 

2. They Take Many Years to Ripen

Macadamia nuts are not ripe until they fall to the ground. If you pick them from the tree, they’ll have a sticky texture when you open them, and the nuts won’t pull away from the husks. The trees take seven years to produce nuts and will not reach full production for at least 10 years.

3. Farming Macadamias Began With the Coffee Collapse

Following the international coffee collapse of 1899, plantations in the Kona region were left abandoned and eventually leased to immigrant families who worked at them. They planted nut trees as a source of food, which led to running macadamia nut plantations and selling the yield to the public. 

4. They Have Several Health Benefits

Macadamia nuts contain monounsaturated fats that help maintain healthy cholesterol levels. They’re rich in dietary fiber, which aids digestion,  and protein, which helps build muscle. Additionally, they contain vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, such vitamin E, folic acid, and magnesium, that may prevent heart disease. 

If you’re looking for a quintessential Hawaiian cultural experience, visit Experience Nutridge during your next trip. Home of the state’s first macadamia nut plantation, this Honolulu tourist attraction offers tours of the beautiful grounds and hosts luaus featuring live music and farm-to-table dinners. Call (808) 531-5050 to schedule a tour of this cultural center, or visit the website to learn more about their history.