Beach gardenia
Guettarda speciosa
These little white flowers of Tafano are used to make traditional hei.
Guettarda speciosa
The fragrant flowers can be used in the preparation of monoi.
Tahitian names
Sea randa, Zebra wood
Tafano (S, T, A), Kahaia (T), Hano (M)
Interesting facts
The little white flowers of Tafano smell very good, and are used to make necklaces and crown of flowers. These flowers can also be used in the preparation of monoi to hydrate and perfume skin and hair. Its resistant wood allow it to be made into traditional canoes, and furniture. The charcoal could even be used for dental hygiene in Marquesas Islands. Its large leaves sometimes replace plates or help wrap food to be cooked.
| Family | Rubiaceae |
|---|---|
| Biogeographical status | indigenous |
| Life form | shrub or small tree |
| Abundance on Tetiaroa | common |
| Ecosystem on Tetiaroa | mixed forest, beach (backshore) |
sources & credits
Butaud J.F., Gérard J., Guibal D., 2011. Guide des arbres de Polynésie française, bois et utilisations. 2e édition, Au vent des îles.
Jost X., Ansel J.L., Raharivelomanana P., Butaud J.F., 2016. Ethnobotanical survey of cosmetic plants used in Marquesas Islands (French Polynesia). Journal of Ethnobiology and Ethnomedicine.
Barrau, 1971. Useful plants of Tahiti. Société des Océanistes, Paris, Dossier 8.
legend
S: Society | T: Tuamotu | M: Marquesas | G: Gambier | A: Australs | FP: French Polynesia