Milo
Milo (Thespesia populnea), also called portia tree, is a coastal species with glossy leaves and a dense trunk. Native to tropical regions across the Pacific, it’s found in Hawaiʻi’s nearshore areas as an ornamental or cultural planting.
Milo wood is known for its handsome grain, often displaying rich reddish-brown tones and fine patterning. Traditionally, Milo was used for bowls, platters, and other functional implements in Hawaiian culture. Today, only small-scale harvesting occurs, typically from fallen limbs or removed ornamental trees. Woodworkers appreciate Milo for turned objects and art pieces. It does not support a large-scale timber industry, but its strong cultural resonance and beautiful coloration maintain steady artisanal demand for salvage pieces.