Odontosoria chinensis is a fern in the family Lindsaeaceae.[1][2] Commonly called lace fern (Hawaiian: pala'ā, palae, or palapala'ā), it is native from India to Hawai'i, and south to Sumatra, Borneo and the Philippines, as well as other parts of the tropics and sub-tropics.[1] It is commonly found in forest openings and disturbed areas such as landslides, along trails or roads. It grows in moist, shady areas from sea level to an elevation of 4,000 feet.[3]
Subspecies
As of November 2019[update], two subspecies were recognized:[1][2]
Odontosoria biflora from the Philippines has also been treated as a subspecies of this species.
Uses
Hawaiians made red-brown dye from the old fronds. Pala'ā was used to treat "female ailments". It is made into a lei using the hili, or hilo technique - a braiding or plaiting method with only one type of plant material. It is also made into haku with other plants using the wili or winding method and a backing.[4]
^Growing plants for Hawaiian lei : 85 plants for gardens, conservation, and business. Honolulu: College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resources, University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa. 2002. pp. 38–39. ISBN1929325134.
^Bornhorst, Heidi Leianuenue (2005). Growing native Hawaiian plants : a how-to guide for the gardener. Honolulu: Bess Press. p. 63. ISBN1573062073.
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