Liliaceae. 



On the lava fields of Auahi, on the southern slope of Haleakala, the tree is 

 most numerous, but differs in many regards from the specimens found in the 

 forest of Makawao on the same mountain. The leaves of the Auahi specimens 

 are much smaller and more graceful. 



The wood of the Halapepe is white, with reddish streaks, and is extremely 

 soft. On account of its softness it was used by the natives for carving their 

 idols. Certain gods, however, were carved, each from a particular wood, like 

 the goddess Laka, who was represented on the altar by a large block of wood of 

 the Lama (Maba sandivicensis ) tree. 



The branches of the Halapepe were used by the natives in decorating the 

 kuahu or altar of the goddess Laka, which was erected in the halau or hall in 

 which the hula dances were performed, Laka having been the patron of the 

 sacred Hula. 



Much of interest in regard to the decoration of the Halau and Kuahu can be 

 found in Dr. N. B. Emerson 's book, ' ' Unwritten Literature of Hawaii. ' ' 



112 



