Beach hibiscus
Talipariti tiliaceum
The plant of many uses
Tahitian names
Purau (S, T, G, A), Fau (S, T, M, A), Hau (S, A)
Interesting facts
It is a very useful tree in French Polynesia. Its wood is light and very resistant, it is perfect to make houses, canoes, furniture and other tools. Its yellow flowers have medicinal properties to heal skin problems like chicken pox. The inner bark is used in recipes against filariasis among other things. The inner bark is also used to make fiber skirt called "more", or all types of rigging, and also "tapa" (or bark cloth). The heart-shaped leaves can be used as plates or to wrap food.
| Family | Malvaceae |
|---|---|
| Biogeographical status | Polynesian introduction |
| Life form | tree |
| Abundance on Tetiaroa | common |
| Ecosystem on Tetiaroa | mixed forest |
sources & credits
Butaud J.F., 2013. Tuamotu du centre, Guide floristique. Direction de l'Environnement.
Butaud J.F., Gérard J., Guibal D., 2011. Guide des arbres de Polynésie française, bois et utilisations. 2e édition, Au vent des îles.
Grepin F., Grepin M., 1870-1880. La médecine traditionnelle par F. Grepin et M. Grepin. Direction des Centres d'Expérimentations Nucléaires. Service Mixte de Contrôle Biologique
legend
S: Society | T: Tuamotu | M: Marquesas | G: Gambier | A: Australs | FP: French Polynesia