The gourd, otherwise described as ipu, contains a holistic role within Hawaiian history and culture. Physically, the ipu can be used to carry food and water or store personal items. It can also be used to produce kani (sound) for mele (song) and hula (dance).

n., General name for vessel or container, as dish, mug, calabash, pot, cup, utensil, urn, bowl, basin, pipe. Examples: Ka ipu o ka ʻike, a container of knowledge [a learned person].

There are three traditional ways to decorate gourds: Laha – painting, Wela Pa`a – wood burning, and Pāwehe – “tattooing.” In the Kona district of Hawai’i Island, wood burning techniques apparently were used to decorate gourds.

Mar 19, 2025 · In old Hawai'i, there was nothing more indispensable and artistically functional as the ipu the fruit of the gourd plant called pohue (Lagenaria siceraria). From early childhood to death, Hawaiians were influenced by the ipu and its all …

Among many varieties that were developed were three outstanding ones: ipu huluhulu, ipu poʻo kanaka, and ipu oloolo. Today watermelons are again cultivated successfully because the fruits are commonly wrapped in paper or cloth during early stages.

These beautiful ceramic Ipu's, ceramic Honu's, ceramic Poi Pounders and ceramic Calabash Bowls are perfect for baby luau favors and centerpieces, wedding favors, graduation favors, party favors. All Ipu, Honu, Poi Pounder and calabash bowl designs are …

This type of gourd was called ipu`awa`awa because it was bitter with poisonous pulp and was used medicinally. It was mainly used as a receptacle (`umeke), to hold water or food or used as rattles for dancers, to store articles and as drums for hula. Most of the Hawaiian gourds were undecorated. They were suspended in nets (koko) of olona fiber.

Learn how to grow the Ipu bottle gourd as well as facts and details about Ipu, one of the canoe plants of Hawaii. This gourd had and still has many uses including for storage, water, medicine,...

Oct 22, 2024 · Plant arrived well packed and fast! The specimen itself was healthy and pest free as well! As a Native Hawaiian, Ti holds a very significant value to me and is believed to offer protection. I love that this specimen was locally grown and acclimated to Hawaii weather as well!

Ipu were used as dippers, syringes for medicinal purposes, as pots and as eating utensils such as dishes, bowls and mugs. They were also used to store dye, and as burial receptacles for bones. A small pear-shaped nose whistle called ipu hokiokio is unique to Hawai`i.