Kalo Varieties

Which variety of kalo is the best? The one that's in the bowl on the table. - Jerry Konanui, Hawaiian Mahi‘ai

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Lehua Poni

This variety is from Henry Leong of Kea‘au. It is a hybrid. Lehua refers to a red color similar to the red flower of the ‘ōhi‘a tree. Lehua reflects the color that the poi transforms into; the fresh poi is grey and ferments into red, after a couple days. Lehua also means warrior, beloved friend or relative, sweetheart and expert. Poni is purple. Poni also means to anoint, crown, appoint.

Use As Food

Distribution

General Characteristics

Ha (Petiole)

Light purple, brownish.

Lau or Lu'au(Leaf Blade)

'I'o kalo (Corm)

Pua (Flower)

Remarks

Bronzing of lau. Grown at Pane'ewa Hilo ag station. Hybrid of unknown combination. Can stand up to 6 feet. Grown dryland. Corm is purple lilac. Pounds like Maui lehua.