In the Garden
Pili grass
HUI KU MAOLI OLA
Pili in Hawaiian means 'to stick' and Pili grass was placed on hula altars in hopes that the knowledge of the dance would stick in the dancers' mind. The grass is available at shops such as Home Depot (for $3.98) and at Hui Ku Maoli Ola plant nursery for $3.00.
Latin name: Heterogpogon contortus
PILI is probably what the Little Grass Shack in Kealakekua, Hawaii, was made of. It could also be the material used in building the Love Shack since the word "pili" also means "together, to be with, adhere to, join," etc. -- words often associated with lovers.The phrase "pili aloha" means "close friend" or "beloved companion," so rather than giving your significant other a dozen roses, give him or her a bunch of pili grass to show how much you care.
Just make sure you explain the meaning behind it.
Description: Pili forms tufts of light blueish-green blades that range in height from 2 to 3 feet tall. Their flowers, although insignificant in appearance, form as spikelets at the top of the plant that often become entangled. This, most likely, is how the plant got its name.
Distribution: Pili grass is an indigenous plant, or perhaps a Polynesian introduction that is now found in dry open areas, rocky cliffs or slopes near the ocean. It is found on all the main Hawaiian islands and throughout the tropics.
Cultural uses: Pili was used in the past for thatching houses and can still be used for that purpose. It was also placed on hula altars in hope that newly gained knowledge would "pili," or stick in the mind.
Landscape use and care: Pili is easy to care for and requires very little watering, if any. Full sun in hot, dry areas are the best growing conditions. Few pests bother this plant, although birds often prune off blades for nesting material.
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