Ti, Ki, Cordyline fruticosa Ti has tall, sparingly branched wood stalks 3 to 12 feet high. The plant's leaves are pointed, oval and blade- shaped, about 4 inches wide and vary from 1 to 2 feet long. It was traditionally planted along Hawaiian taro ( kalo ) ponds and is now commonly planted in gardens and along hedgerows. A canoe plant, Ti was brought to Hawaii by early Polynesian settlers. It is considered a sacred plant in the Hawaiian culture, said to bring good luck and protect against negative spirits. An emblem of high rank and divine power, Ti is attributed to the god Lono and goddess of hula, Laka. Still today, Ti is used in ceremony and twisted into beautiful leis for honor. While Ti is revered in a spiritual light, it has also been used medicinally throughout Hawaiian history. Externally, Ti can be administered to reduce fever, relieve headaches and relieve soreness, or internally to soothe the nerves and relax muscles. "It speaks to us of strength and survival, and the abundance of blessings we receive daily here in Hawai`i." -Lynton Dove White
