Xylosma hawaiiense

Description:

MauaSalicaceae (Willow family)Endemic to the Hawaiian IslandsPuu Anahulu, Hawaii IslandEarly Hawaiians used the hard, dense wood was for phaku kui ai (poi pounders).Modern Use:The wood is reddish brown with light and dark banding resembling growth rings. It is a heavy, hard wood, but easily worked.EtymologyThe generic name Xylosma is from the Greek xylon, wood, and osma, odor.The specific epithet hawaiiense refers to the fact that it is from, or belongs to, the Hawaiian Islands.nativeplants.hawaii.edu/plant/view/Xylosma_hawaiiense