The name of this ‘awa is taken from the ahupua‘a and stream along the southeast coast of Moloka‘i, where the cultivar was found. It is not a traditional Hawaiian name for an ‘awa variety. Plants were found inland from the Ili‘ili‘ōpae Heiau along an historic trail that extends from Pūko‘o over the mountain and down to the bottom of Wailau Valley. This same cultivar has been found in abundance in Wailau Valley on Moloka‘i's north shore.
Mapulehu is an erect growing ‘awa with long internodes showing few spots. Often there is a dark patch just above the node and growing bud.
Mapulehu is an erect growing ‘awa with long internodes showing few spots. Often there is a dark patch just above the node and growing bud.