In the Garden
There are many cultivars and varieties of ki today but only La'i, Green Ti leaf, is considered the Hawaiian variety. Ki, La'i
(Green Ti leaf)
Latin name: Cordyline fruticosa
HUI KU MAOLI OLA
Description: A shrub approximately 5 to 12 feet tall with large green leaves and few branches.
Distribution: This Polynesian introduction is now grown extensively in Hawaii. Ti plants are naturalized, thriving in mesic forests and valleys, often in secondary hala forests.
Cultural uses: The leaves are used for thatching, wrapping food, making hula skirts and sandals. The sweet roots were baked and eaten or used to make the alcoholic beverage 'okolehao.
Landscape uses and care: Ti plants can be used as a specimen plant or for hedges. They do fine in full sun or partial shade in wind-protected areas. Daily watering is fine but only necessary if living in extremely hot areas.
The dark leaves provide a great backdrop as contrast against lighter/brighter colored plants.
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