How Lahaina’s 151-year-old tree survived Maui’s devastating wildfire

It is estimated that Lahaina lost 25,000 trees in Maui’s devastating 2023 wildfire.

When a deadly wildfire tore through Lahaina on Maui last August, the wall of flames scorched the 151-year-old banyan tree along the historic town’s Front Street. But the sprawling tree survived the blaze, and thanks to the efforts of arborists and dedicated volunteers, parts of it are growing back — and even thriving.

One year after the fire, here’s what to know about the banyan tree and the efforts to restore it.