Did you know that the 'ulu sap was used to
catch nectar feeding birds for their bright and
colorful feathers, and the leaf sap was used as ear drops?

The 'ulu (Artocarpus altilis) or breadfruit is another popular plant during the ancient Hawaiian days. It is a huge plant that can grow up to 35 feet tall. When the fruit is ripe it is a cream or yellow in color. The branches can reach out to a length of thirty feet. The 'ulu's mature fruit can weigh up to ten pounds. In spite of its looks the branches of the ulu are fragile and can break easily.

Did you know that the 'ulu's sap can be used to cure cuts, scratches, and other skin diseases?

The 'ulu also has many different uses. The ancient Hawaiians used the sap as glue to hold their canoes together. The fruit could be made into poi (starchy pudding) or baked in the imu (underground oven). Since the wood was light in weight, men used it to make surfboards, drums, woodwork, and poi boards. The sun dried male flowers can be burned and used as a nontoxic mosquito repellent.

The 'ulu can be found growing in dry areas with lots of sun and places with moist soil.

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