If you're thinking that this fantastic palm would make great shelter from the rain, you'd be spot on. The Hawaiian name for this member of the Pritchardia genus is loulu, meaning "umbrella." There are twenty or so species of these fan palms that are endemic to the Hawaiian islands, and they vary widely in habitat and height. Each island has at least one species that is theirs alone. This one is loulu hiwa (Pritchardia martii) which is endemic to Oahu, preferring mesic to wet elevations of the Ko'olau Mountains. Though slow growing, it can reach heights of 30 feet or more at maturity. Like all palms, the inflorescence, or cluster of flowers off a main stalk, splits out of a protective covering at the base of a leaf. Bees love the white flowers, which when pollinated will develop into fruit called hāwane or wāhane. They darken when ripe (hiwa) and are said to be eaten by early Hawaiians. Unfortunately, rats and other animals enjoy the fruits as well, but if you are able to get them, they are easy to germinate. Grow this palm and you'll be a fan!
3 Comments
Martha
6/22/2013 08:42:19 am
Hi Jeanne
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Falcon
11/21/2016 12:59:03 am
Mynas will be glad to see these berries. :)
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7/29/2017 02:24:46 pm
This alone makes me want to visit Hawaii again. Palms are truly one of a kind!
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