About Odontosoria chinensis (L.) J.Sm.
Odontosoria chinensis (L.) J.Sm. is a fern species that belongs to the Lindsaeaceae family. It is commonly known as lace fern, and in the Hawaiian language it is also called pala'ā, palae, or palapala'ā. This species is native to a range that extends from India to Hawai'i, south to Sumatra, Borneo and the Philippines, and also grows in other tropical and subtropical regions. It is most often found in forest openings and disturbed sites including landslides, and along trails or roads. It grows in moist, shady habitats at elevations ranging from sea level up to 4,000 feet. Historically, Hawaiians produced red-brown dye from the old fronds of this fern. Pala'ā was used to treat so-called "female ailments". It can be made into a lei through the hili or hilo technique, a braiding or plaiting method that uses only one type of plant material. It can also be incorporated into haku lei alongside other plants using the wili, or winding, method with a backing.
