ʻUlana Lau Hala — Pandanus Weaving

Lau hala — the leaves of the hala tree (Pandanus tectorius) — are among the most prized materials in Hawaiian weaving. After harvesting, the long spiny leaves are dried, stripped of their thorns, and prepared for ʻulana, the art of weaving. Skilled weavers create mats, baskets, hats, fans, and floor coverings from lau hala, a tradition passed down through generations. These leaves were harvested from the pū hala growing at Hālau Kaʻeaikahelelani in Keauhou-Kona and are being readied for weaving.