Types of Taro
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by Hawaiians and taro throughout Polynesia, was the Hawaiians' most important food plant. Kalo cultivation may have reached its highest level of sophistication in Hawai'i with the building and engineering of the lo'i or water-filled terraces in which it grew. Hawaiians cultivated many varieties of taro, 100 or more, distinguished by color and shape of leaves, stems and tubers. The plant is thought to be native to Indo-Malaysia and was introduced to the Islands by the first Polynesians. (You can read more about the cultural importance of taro by follwing this link.)
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The royal taro, or apu wai in Hawaiian, was of special significance. Rain water collected in the cup-shaped leaves was considered pure because it hadn't touched the ground. For this reason, the water from the leaf was considered sacred and used in Hawaiian blessings. Photos by Priscilla Millen. |
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