(27) KAAPEAPE
The KAAPEAPE may be recognized by the three pointed terminal leaflet and remaining leaflets which are shaped like spear points. A species found in India and China as well as the Hawaiian Islands, the kaapeape is fairly common in Kipuka Puaulu. Note the irregular spore dots, often abundant on the undersides of the leaves.
(28-31) EKAHA OR MAUI’S PADDLE
Common throughout forested areas in the park are the plants known scientifically as Elaphoglossum, (Greek for “elephant-tongue”). They are usually found growing as epiphytes or air plants on the trunks of trees. The resemblance to a paddle was recognized by the Hawaiians as the name HOEA MAUI or “Maui’s paddle” indicates. In contrast to this smooth, shiny species is the fuzzy EKAHA. According to Hillebrand, (5, p. 549) these plants are found on all the inhabited Hawaiian Islands and in tropical America, Tahiti, India, tropical Africa, Madeira and the Azores. Six species of Elaphoglossum have been found in the Kilauea section.
(32) LAUKAHI
The LAUKAHI is a fairly common, low fern in the vicinity of Kipuka Puaulu, but is considered rare in other portions of the Park. Fagerlund (3, p. 19) lists it as having been collected in a lava tube at 8,800 feet on Mauna Loa.
(34) PALAPALAI O KAUMAAPUA
One of the most interesting things about this fern is the fact that the frond tapers in both directions—toward the tip and toward the base. This may be seen in the illustration. This species is fairly abundant in the crater near the Thurston Lava Tube.
(36) CYCLOSORUS SANDWICENSIS
Although this fern is a native Hawaiian species, no Hawaiian name for it could be found. It prefers shade and moist areas and is fairly common in the Thurston Lava Tube and Kilauea Iki trails.