Cyperus javanicus

Description:

[syn. Mariscus javanicus]Polynesian Names: Ahuawa (Hawaii); Ehuawa (Hawaii), Mahele (Uvea); Mhelehele (Tonga); Mselehele (Futuna); Mauku tatau tai (Cook Islands); Mou haari (Society Islands); Mouku (Marquesas); Mouu (Austral Islands, Marquesas); Selesele (Samoa) CyperaceaeIndigenous to the Hawaiian IslandsOahu (Cultivated)Early Hawaiians pounded stems of ahuawa until they were only fibers and used them as strainers for awa or niu (coconut), and as cordage. Fibers soaked for a few hours to free pulp, dried in the sun for a day or two, and then could be used. The fibers were very durable lasting two years or more. The cordage was used for cords (hwele) or nets (kk puupuu) designed to carry umeke (food or water containers).The stringy fibers were also made into brushes to paint color onto tapa.The leaves and seed/fruit were used in lei.nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plant/view/Cyperus_javanicus