HAWAII NATURE NOTES
THE PUBLICATION OF THE
NATURALIST DIVISION, HAWAII NATIONAL PARK
AND THE HAWAII NATURAL HISTORY ASSOCIATION

(28-31) EKAHA OR MAUI'S PADDLE

Common throughout forested areas in the park are the plants known scientifically as Elaphoglossum, (Greek for "elephant-tongue"). They are usually found growing as epiphytes or air plants on the trunks of trees. The resemblance to a paddle was recognized by the Hawaiians as the name HOEA MAUI or "Maui's paddle" indicates. In contrast to this smooth, shiny species is the fuzzy EKAHA. According to Hillebrand, (5, p. 549) these plants are found on all the inhabited Hawaiian Islands and in tropical America, Tahiti, India, tropical Africa, Madeira and the Azores. Six species of Elaphoglossum have been found in the Kilauea section.

The Elephant Tongue ferns: From the left, Elaphoglossum reticulatum, small form (31), E. aemulum (28), E. gorgoneum (29), E. reticulatum, large form (28), and E. hirtum (30). All are called "EKAHA." The dark surfaces are spores.