Hawaiian Ti. leaves

Description:

Distinguishing features: long canoe shaped leaves, waxy texture, green color

Habitat:

Tropical

Notes:

Species Identification Sheet Common name: Hawaiian Ti Leaves Scientific name: Cordyline fruticosa Geographic area of origin: Pacific Islands, Asia Common uses/hazards/importance: mainly to cook with but the Leaves were also used to make items of clothing including skirts worn in dance performances. The Hawaiian hula skirt is a dense skirt with a layer of at least 50 green leaves and the bottom shaved flat. Distinguishing features: long canoe shaped leaves, waxy texture, green color Date and method of arrival in Hawaii: it was brought to Hawaii by Polynesian settlers Indigenous? Yes Endemic? no Invasive? no Other interesting historical, cultural, or ecological information: There were many medicinal uses. It was used to wrap other herbs needed to be baked or broiled. Hawaiians would lay the leaves of the tree on top of the structures in heiaus to show their respect to the gods.