Division of Forestry and Wildlife: Forestry Program

Common Name: Hala Pepe

Scientific Name: Chrysodracon forbesii

Range: There are six different species of hala pepe, each endemic to its own Hawaiian island.

About this Species: The soft whitish to reddish wood was used by early Hawaiians to make idols (kiʻi) and to decorate altars. Early Hawaiians used the leaves in bathing and steam baths for chills (liʻa), headaches, fever, and thought to stop burning temperature or sensation. Leaves and flowers are used in lei making.

Photo by David Eickhoff.