Tī Leaf & Kukui Nut Lei

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COMPOSITION & CONSTRUCTION

Shape: Natural
Materials Used: Tī Leaf, Kukui
Hawaiian Name: Kī, Kukui
Scientific Name: Cordyline terminalis, Aleurites moluccana
A fresh ti leaf lei is wrapped around a keepsake kukui nut lei.

DIMENSIONS

Width: 2 inch in diameter.
Length: Hangs about 18 inches from neck when worn (40 inches long before being tied).

CARE

Durability: Tī Leaf Lei is very durable and long-lasting, Kukui Nut Lei will last forever.
Instructions: Refrigerate in bag or container.

RELATED INFORMATION

The tī plant was brought to Hawaii prior to 1778 by the early Polynesians from Tangaroa, Tane, Ti and Rongo. Hawaiian Ki was considered sacred to the Hawaiian god, Lono, and to the goddess of the hula, Laka. It symbolized high rank and divine power. The leaves were used by the kahuna priests in ancient rituals as protection from evil spirits.

The kukui, or candlenut tree, was probably introduced to Hawaii by early Polynesian settlers, because it has always been an essential part of Hawaiian society. Oil extracted from the kernels was used for lamps. Dyes for tapa cloth were obtained from the roots and green seed covering. Polished kukui nuts were sewn into leis. Because the tree’s products played an important part in the daily lives of the Hawaiians, the kukui nut tree has been designated the State Tree of Hawaii and the lei made of its flowers and leaves represent the Island of Molokai.

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