`Ulu

`Ulu is also known as the breadfruit tree. It is widespread throughout Asia and the South Pacific. In the Hawaiian language, `ulu means "round," as in a smooth stone or bowling ball, similar to the shape and size of this fruit.

`Ulu has an extensive root system which helps it to grow wide and up to 60 feet high. The monoecious tree is easily recognized by its bright dark-green leathery palmate or ruffled leaves, which are deeply lobed and can be up to three feet long. Branches can reach out to a span of 30 to 60 feet. After the male flowers emerge, the female flowers of the `Ulu develop. They grow into elongated green balls with a rough surface about eight inches in circumference, which can weigh up to 10 pounds. Ripe fruit (actually a vegetable) will turn yellowish or brownish in color. The high carbohydrate vegetable tastes similar to the potato and is a good source of calcium, vitamins A and B, with some ascorbic acid and thiamine.

`Ulu fruits abundantly from late summer into winter. They prefer hot, moist areas.

Our `Ulu tree was gifted by Ho'oulu 'Aina in Kalihi Valley and planted by Kapono Ryan (retired Director of University Communications) in 2018.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Usages

• Wood for canoes, surfboards, woodwork for homes, drums, and for papa kui`ai or poi boards
• A low grade tapa cloth was made from the inner bark of young branches
• The rough sheath was used as a dry abrasive in the final polishing of bowls and utensils. It was also used to sand kukui/candelnut before they were strung into lei
• Fallen and sundried male flowers were lit as mosquito repellent
• When the sap is used alone or when mixed with other plants, it can be applied to the skin as a moisturizer, or to heal cuts, scratches and various skin diseases