Wauke
Tall skinny wauke plants with green leaves stand closely packed.
Wauke (wă’u-ke)
Paper Mulberry
Broussonetia papyrifera
Mulberry (Morus spp.) holds cultural and economic significance in Hawaii for various reasons:
Cultural Significance:
Traditional Uses: Mulberry has been traditionally used in Hawaii for various purposes. The bark of the mulberry tree was used in making kapa, a traditional Hawaiian fabric, and the wood was employed in crafting tools and other items.
Medicinal Uses: Some cultures value mulberry for its potential medicinal properties. In traditional Hawaiian medicine, parts of the mulberry plant might be used for various health remedies, although practices can vary among different communities.
Ceremonial Importance: Certain plants, including mulberry, may have ceremonial importance in Hawaiian culture. The leaves, for example, might be used in cultural events, rituals, or ceremonies.
Culinary Uses: While not as commonly consumed as in some other cultures, the fruit of the mulberry tree is edible. In Hawaii, people might incorporate mulberries into traditional dishes or use them in cooking and baking.
Economic Significance:
Silk Production: Mulberry leaves are the primary food source for silkworms. While silk production is not as prominent in Hawaii as in some other regions, there have been efforts to explore sericulture (silk farming) as a potential industry. This could contribute to economic diversification.
Mulberry Tea and Products: Mulberry leaves can be used to make tea, and some people value it for its potential health benefits. Additionally, there is a growing market for herbal and specialty teas, and mulberry-based products could find a niche in this market.
Landscaping and Shade: Mulberry trees can be valuable in landscaping for their aesthetic appeal and the shade they provide. They are often used for ornamental purposes in gardens, parks, and along streets. This can contribute to the beautification of urban and suburban areas.
Agroforestry and Permaculture: Mulberries can be part of agroforestry systems, providing benefits such as soil improvement and diversified income streams for farmers. In permaculture practices, mulberry trees may be integrated into systems that promote sustainability and biodiversity.
Potential for Value-Added Products: Beyond tea, mulberry leaves and fruits can be used in various value-added products. This could include jams, jellies, syrups, or even dietary supplements, contributing to the development of a local industry.
While the cultural and economic significance of mulberry in Hawaii may not be as prominent as in some other regions, efforts to explore and promote its various uses can contribute to the overall sustainability and resilience of local ecosystems and economies.
