Scientific Name: Cordyline fruticosa
Polynesian Introduction
Description: Shrub (6-10ft.) with large green leaves and few branches.
Distribution: A Polynesian introduction now grown extensively. Naturalized in mesic forests and valleys, often in secondary Hala forests.
Cultural Uses: Leaves: thatch, food wrappers, hula skirts, sandals. The sweet roots were baked and eaten or used to make an alcoholic beverage called ‘okolehao.
Landscape Uses and Care: Can be used as a specimen plant or for hedges. Does fine in full sun or partial shade in wind protected areas. Dark leaves provide a great backdrop for lighter/brighter colored plants.
Additional Info: There are many cultivars and varieties of ki today but only the plant described here is considered the Hawaiian variety.
Ki
