ʻApe Mature Leaf Photograph by Heidi Fickinger
ʻape
n. Large taro-like plants (Alocasia macrorrhiza, Xanthosoma robustum). (Neal 156, 162.) A number of beliefs concerning ʻape have been recorded. ʻApe was planted by a gate or fence because the irritating sap of the leaves was thought to ward off evil spirits; leaves were placed under tapas or mats on which the sick lay for the same reason. ʻApe was not planted near the house for fear the residents might become sick. Varieties are qualified by the colors kea or keʻokeʻo (white), or hiwa or ʻeleʻele (dark). (PPN kape.)
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