The hau (Hibiscus tiliaceus) featured in this print is a ubiquitous and culturally significant tree found throughout tropical and subtropical regions, particularly prominent in Pacific island cultures and throughout the Hawaiian Islands. Hau is a canoe plant, meaning that it was one of a handful of plants brought with great care by canoe to Hawai’i centuries ago for its numerous practical uses. Its lightweight, durable wood was traditionally favored for outriggers, canoe parts, and fishing net floats due to its buoyancy. The fibrous bark yields strong cordage for ropes, mats, and clothing, and various parts of the plant have been used in traditional medicine.The tree often grows in a sprawling, picturesque manner, forming dense thickets along coastlines and riverbanks. It's easily recognizable by its broad, heart-shaped leaves and showy, cup-shaped flowers that typically open bright yellow in the morning, gradually turning orange and then reddish-brown by evening before falling. Its flowers are used to make beautiful leis and are used as adornments.
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