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Na Hulu Manu o Hawai`i
The Precious Things of Hawai`i
Native Plants
Ki, Ti
Cordeline Terminalis
There are no myths or legends describing the introduction of ti to the
Hawaiian islands, so Handy and Handy (p222) believe that its seeds may
have been transported by migrating birds.Ki is widely distributed throughout tropical Asia, Australia, and Oceania. In cooking, it fills the place of aluminum foil and plastic wrap, serving to wrap food for cooking and storage. It is also used in ceremonial and practical clothing, such as hula skirts and rain capes. Ki is used in the treatment of illness, both physical and spiritual. The leaf is used to reduce fever, and at the same time wards away harmful spiritual influences.
The ki is unusual in that it is considered a plant of exceptional mana, spiritual power, but is not a kino lau, body form, of any known deity. But it is considered essential for most ceremony.
Ki is included in the greenery of the hula altar. It is worn as a protection, and the stalk with a tuft of leaves at the top is the forerunner of the modern kahili, and also served as a flag of truce in battle.
Ki is planted around dwellings as a protection to the home and its occupants.
Left:
Hula sisters helping each other with their lei la`i, 2006.Below: Yuen `ohana kupuna wearing lei la`i, 1932.
Right: Blessing ceremony at the University of Hawai`i at Hilo, participants wearing lei la`i.
Pulling
the la`i from ki. 
La`i ready to be made into lei.
Preparing
dried the la`i as a base for the lei haku.
Sizing la`i for pa`u (skirt). Blade is long enough to reach from armpit
to hand.
Making a puolo, a carrying container, from ki.