Hawaiian Name(s): pala, kapua‘ilio

Scientific Name: Marattia douglasii

Vernacular Name: none

Family: Marattiaceae

Status: endemic

Authority: (C.Presl) Baker

Description: Fern.

Habitat

Medicines: For nae ‘okiu and ka umaumalei, for all illnesses of the stomach. The young shoots are made into a drink to lubricate the stomach and get rid of worms (Chun 1998:47). The liquid from raw stipes (frond stalks) used to treat bronchial problems and as a laxative, as well (Palmer 2003:178–180).

Non Medicinal Uses: Pala frond bases could be cooked and eaten in times of famine (Abbott 1992:20; Malo 1951:22, 43). The fronds were also used twined with maile in lei and it was also used in heiau ceremonies (Malo 1951:163; Neal 1965:6). Edible portions attatched to the akua loa (Makahiki symbol of Lono) (Handy et al. 1972:332; Malo 1951:143).

Specific gravity of wood: n/a

Famous Locations:

Mele:

`Ōlelo Noeau:

Dye Color and Parts:

Kino lau:

Location on Bishop Museum Kalihi Campus:

Propagation Information: