Common Laua’e Fern (Microsorium scolopendria plydodium)
The plant commonly referred to as Laua’e Fern (Microsorium scolopendria plydodium) is actually a non-native species ornamental garden plant. This common Laua’e Fern is native to parts of Oceania and tropical Asia and is NOT indigenous to Hawaii. This hardy Laua'e Fern is one of the most beautiful and well known ferns throughout the Hawaiian Islands.
Laua’e Ferns typically grow on "runners" over the ground and have large glossy green leaves. Look closely at a Laua’e Fern and you will notice two types of leaves, vegetation and spore bearing. The spores are clustered together on the underside of leaf. In reproduction, the spores fall to the ground and grow into new plants in a ground area that is shady, warm and moist.
True Laua’e Fern ((Microsorum spectrum wainiha)
The native Laua’e Fern mentioned in hula chants and spoken of in Mary Kawena “Pukui’s ‘Ōlelo No‘eau” actually refers to another much more rare fern found in Kauai’s Wainiha Valley. The true Laua’e Fern, (Microsorum spectrum wainiha), is so rare it has been replaced in cultural hula practices with the non-native fern, Microsorium scolopendria plydodium, which is more common. Traditionally, true Laua’e was used to scent kapa cloth with its delicate maile like fragrance as well as in lei making and for native spiritual practices including hula.
Laua’e Ferns add interesting texture and color to tropical landscapes. The common Laua’e Fern thrives in a variety of locations. Laua’e can grow on rocks, trees trunks or on the forest floor as well as a ground cover. The leaves are often used for decorations. Cut fronds can last about a week for flower displays. You will find the common Laua’e Fern used in landscape designs for resorts and shopping centers and local gardens where it grows nicely in shady moist soil.
