Top 10 Tallest Trees in Samoa

Nestled in the lush Pacific, Samoa's humid tropical climate and fertile volcanic soil create an ideal environment for arboreal giants. Towering above the diverse canopy, Tropical almond, Round-leaf fountain palm, and Star apple are sentinel species of these verdant forests, standing as both ecological cornerstones and testaments to the island's natural heritage. Their soaring heights are not just visually arresting but play a pivotal role in sustaining the complex forest ecosystem, entwined with Samoa's rich cultural lore.

List of Tallest Trees

1. Tropical almond

Tropical almond is grown commonly as an ornamental tree. It is prized for its ability to provide shade with its large leaves. These leaves are commonly used in aquariums by fish breeders for their ability to lower the pH and heavy metal content of the water. Although the fruit of the tropical almond is edible, the taste is slightly acidic.

Plant Height:

35 m

2. Round-leaf fountain palm

Round-leaf fountain palm is an elegant palm tree named for its almost-circular, spiked leaves ("rotundifolia" means “round-leaved” in Latin). This is a popular evergreen ornamental that attracts bees and birds to the garden. It has further ecological value as a food plant for the caterpillars of butterflies such as Suastus gremius and Elymnias hypermnestra.

Plant Height:

25 m

3. Rain tree

The rain tree(Albizia saman) is a giant among trees and can easily reach up to 24 m tall in its lifespan. In an act of self-protection, it will curl in its leaves whenever they're not useful, during periods of rain, clouds, and even just at night! It makes durable lumber with a distinctive, wavy grain pattern. Parts of this tree are toxic, so use caution!

Plant Height:

19 m to 25 m

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4. Star apple

Other names for Chrysophyllum cainito (*Chrysophyllum cainito*) include purple star apple, golden leaf tree, and milk fruit. The fruit is delicious, especially when served chilled. However, it not only tastes good, but it also has potent antioxidant properties. They call it “bobi wata” or "breast milk fruit" in Sierra Leone.

Plant Height:

20 m

5. Mango tree

Mango tree is a large tree native to the Indian subcontinent. It is most well-known for the tropical fruit it produces, and mango is the national fruit of India, Pakistan, and the Philippines. Mango tree can also be used for wood after the tree’s fruit production is over. This type of wood is highly prized for making musical instruments.

Plant Height:

10 m to 20 m

6. Corn plant

Corn plant (Dracaena fragrans) is an evergreen, slow-growing perennial shrub native to tropical Africa. Also, it is a classic houseplant, grown in Europe since the 1800s. Its glossy green foliage that resembles corn leaves grow on top of a thick cane, which is why the plant is sometimes called “false palm tree.”

Plant Height:

4.5 m to 15 m

7. Breadfruit

Breadfruit (*Artocarpus altilis*) is a tree grown in numerous locations around the world for its edible food, which is a staple in various countries. Breadfruit is native to New Guinea, the Malibu Islands, and the Philippines.

Plant Height:

9 m to 15 m

8. Pomelo

Pomelo (*Citrus grandis*) is a greenish, tropical and subtropical fruit originally that is larger than any other citrus fruit on the planet (thus the species name - 'grandis'). Though it is the ancestor of the commonly cultivated grapefruit (citrus x paradisi), the pomelo has a thick, hard-to-peel rind and doesn’t have a lot of juice. Nevertheless, it is commonly eaten in Southeast Asia.

Plant Height:

5 m to 15 m

9. Ponytail palm

The ponytail palm is a popular houseplant with a bulbous stem and a cascade of leaves that resemble a ponytail. The ponytail palm isn’t actually a palm tree, but a succulent member of the agave family. These plants are easy to grow and forgiving. They thrive in bright indirect light and drier soil.

Plant Height:

4 m to 15 m

10. Arizona cypress

The arizona cypress is a popular evergreen for its heat and drought tolerance. The needles of the arizona cypress are soft and fragrant. It can be used for windscreens, erosion control, landscaping, and for Christmas trees.

Plant Height:

15 m

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More Plants in Samoa

Most Common Toxic Plants

Samoa's warm, tropical climate with its fertile volcanic soil provides ideal conditions for a diverse range of flora, including toxic species. Due to ample rainfall and humidity, such environments can be hospitable to potentially harmful plants. While a comprehensive inventory of toxic flora is extensive, caution is warranted with species such as , , and , which are noted for their presence in the region.

Most Common Flowers

Samoa's tropical climate and fertile soil create an ideal environment for a rich diversity of native flowers. Among the most characteristic blossoms are , , and . These flowers not only add visual beauty to the landscape but also hold great symbolism and ecological importance in the region. Trustworthy sources confirm the existence and significance of these indigenous blooms in Samoa's floral paradise.

Most Common Flowers of Spring

As the balmy Spring breezes sweep across Samoa, a kaleidoscope of floral hues bursts forth, heralding the season's arrival. Among the first to bloom are , their petals synonymous with new beginnings. The striking vibrancy of flowers graces gardens with a symphony of colors, while the culturally significant unfurls, meshing tradition into the island's natural tapestry. Each flower not only embellishes the landscape but also embodies the rejuvenating spirit of Spring in Samoa.

Most Common Spring Fruits

Spring in Samoa unfurls with a gentle warmth, coaxing the lush landscapes into a vibrant crescendo of greenery and blossoms. During this bountiful season, , , and reach the peak of freshness, offering their succulent gifts to the island's inhabitants. These mainstays in the local diet embody the rejuvenation that Spring brings, marking a time of abundance and celebration in the Samoan archipelago.

Most Common Fruits

Samoa's warm tropical climate and volcanic soil provide a nurturing ground for an abundance of local fruit plants. Its ample rainfall and year-round warmth are particularly suitable for species like , , and . These fruit-bearing plants are integral to Samoa’s culture, offering both nutritional value and economic sustenance to the local communities. They stand as symbols of the island's rich biodiversity and agricultural heritage.

Most Common Trees

Samoa's climatic conditions, characterized by tropical rainforests and humid weather, provide a favorable environment for the growth of native trees. Among the emblematic local trees, , , and stand tall. These trees hold great cultural and ecological value in the region, providing resources such as timber, food, and medicinal properties. Their significance in Samoan culture is evident in various aspects of daily life, traditional practices, and conservation efforts.

Most Common Flowers of Winter

Winter in Samoa is known for its serene cold, where frosty environments unexpectedly become a haven for certain flowers. During this season, three specific blooms , , and brave the chill and grace the landscape with their resilience, beauty, and symbolic depth. These winter flowers add a touch of vibrant colors and fragrances to Samoa's winter scenery.

Most Common Plants

In Samoa, you can find Hong Kong orchid tree, Song of india, Black raspberry, Cardboard palm, Purple amaranth, and more! There are 50 types of plants in total. Be sure to look out for these common plants when you’re walking on the streets, in parks, or public gardens.