A day for appreciating breadfruit | News, Sports, Jobs

The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photo

The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photo

Waiehu’s Paul Higashino (left) and Kahanu Gardens tree caretaker Kama Helekahi load ulu tree keiki into a wheelbarrow manned by Maui Nui Botanical Gardens volunteer Gary Shay during Saturday morning’s La ‘Ulu Breadfruit Day in Kahului. The starts from the Breadfruit Institute at Kahanu Gardens were a Samoan variety called Ulu Fiti. Helekahi said fruit from the variety have a sweet taste and are great for making chips. He said the tree’s fruits average between 6 and 8 pounds. Saturday’s celebration of the Hawaiian food staple featured information booths, cultural activities and food booths highlighting many delicious ways to prepare ulu.

SECOND PHOTO: Waiehu’s Joe Donato carries an ulu tree keiki Saturday morning while attending La ‘Ulu Breadfruit Day at the Maui Nui Botanical Gardens with grandson Kalei, 6. Donato said he planned to turn the planting of the tree into a lesson for his grandson. “He’s going to plant ’em,” Donato said. “He’s got to learn.”

The Maui News / MATTHEW THAYER photos

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