Sustainability: Bamboo Cultivation

Bamboo, 'ohe in Hawai'ian, is considered a high-yield renewable natural resource.

In Hawai'ian legend, Maui's grandmother Hina planted bamboo she had brought from Tahiti. When Maui saw it, he reached for it and cut his hand on the sharp edges. To prevent this from recurring, Hina refashioned bamboo to be round and smooth on the outside, as it is today.

Hawai'ian uses of 'ohe include flutes, water containers, rattles, fire blowing tubes, knives, fishing poles, and house construction.

Hawaii is fortunate to have one of the better native clumping species: Bambusa vulgaris. Several other species of bamboo are planted and used at Dakini Gardens and Retreat for a variety of purposes. Our nursery includes small and large specimens, and we are happy to give advice to clients about bamboo cultivation and use.