Olona

OLONA

Touchardia latifolia
Urticaceae-Nettle family

Endemic Fiber Plant-makes strongest natural fiber in the Pacific

Location: RAINFOREST -500-1000 + /- feet elevation

Hawaiian Uses: cordage for nets, feather capes, netting, Kahili ties, fish hook ties, bird catching nets, lei cordage, house ties,canoe making, etc. All material needing strength used olona cordage. Used for Makahiki- major tax payment to chiefs.

Post contact: Sailing ships traded for miles of rigging made from olona, (better than any rigging ships had) One of most important commodities for trade to obtain newly acquired Hawaiian "wants," vs. needs.

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