Hibiscus Bark
Ka `Ili Hau

Hau Did They Do It?

Hau was the most common aho (cordage) of old Polynesia. Early historic accounts describe massive hau ropes used for hauling roughed-out koa canoes to the shore. Hau is easily obtained and plentiful, making it a favorite for both aho and kaula (rope) for everyday use.

Although Hau bark can be stripped and used immediately for making rough ties, preparing longer lasting aho requires a more complicated process. The branches are soaked in kai (salt water) for 4 to 6 days to separate the inner bast fibers from the outer bark. When wet, it becomes stronger but if continually exposed to water, it deteriorates.

Ka `ili hau pa kai o `Alio.
The hau bark, wet by the sea sprays of `Alio.
Refers to a strong shoredweller. Salt air and sea sprays made the bark of the hau trees on the shore stronger than those of the upland.
(`Olelo No`eau #1403; Pukui 1983)
Canoe Lashing
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Revised on August 29, 1996 by mcb