Pandanus (kaffo’)

The main use of the Pandanus tree was through its leaves, which were traditionally used as a material for weaving.

B.navez / Public Domain

This tropical tree is found throughout the Pacific Islands. In size, it reaches 4 to 14 meters (13 to 46 ft) in height, with about the same canopy diameter. It is typically found in mixed coastal forests at elevations from sea level to 20 meters (66 ft). It is adapted to a wide range of soil types. Two distinguishing characteristics are the leaves and fruit. The former are long, narrow with spiny edges, and have great tensile strength, while the latter resembles a pineapple.

Traditional Uses

The principal use of pandanus in traditional CHamoru society was weaving. Pandanus fruit was not a staple food for the CHamoru, though the kernels of the seeds could be prepared as a relish. The trees trunks were also not viewed a desirable wood.