About Elaeocarpus bifidus Hook. & Arn.
Elaeocarpus bifidus Hook. & Arn. has alternate, papery leaves. Leaf blades range in shape from ovate to lanceolate, measure 7.5–15 cm (3.0–5.9 in) long and 4–10 cm (1.6–3.9 in) wide, have wavy-toothed margins, and their elongated leaf portions are approximately 4–10 cm (1.6–3.9 in) long. The lower surface of each leaf is covered in fine hairs. This tree produces clusters of pale greenish-yellow, bell-shaped flowers that grow 3–8 cm (1.2–3.1 in) long. Elaeocarpus bifidus grows in wet forests at altitudes between 90 and 1,220 m (300 and 4,000 ft), and is native to the Hawaiian islands of Kaua’i and O’ahu. Bark fiber from this species can be used to make rope. Slender branches are suitable for roof thatching, while larger branches can be used to build rafters. In ancient Hawaiian tradition, this species was used to produce black and blue dye.
