Pili Grass Roof

Synthetic pili grass by endureed.

Pili grass roof.

In hawaii lauhala and pili grass are used. Its scientific name is heteropogon contortus. It s not clear if pili grass roofs are indigenous or were introduced from polynesia but this thatching has centuries of recorded use in the hawaiian islands. You can use this unique tiki hut gazebo as an extension of your outdoor living space to put outdoor furniture or hammocks under.

Pili grass has been used for roofing buildings in hawaii. Pili grass scientifically known as heteropogon contortus is one of 80 grass species believed to be native to the far west american islands. It s embedded into the culture and history of hawaii. Whether indigenous or a polynesian introduction early hawaiians used pili as their first choice for thatching roofs and for its brown color neat appearance and pleasant odor.

Pili grass is also commonly called lule grass spear grass tanglehead and twisted beardgrass. Europeans called it tanglehead because the mature seed heads have a tendency to tangle. Pili grass is used in hawaii. The blades of these grasses are tough and strong.

This grass belongs in the genus heteropogon and the species contortus. Replicates authentic hawaiian thatched roofs pili grass is a common plant indigenous to hawai i. In hawaiian pili means to cling or stick. In dominica and fiji palm leaves are the most prevalent thatching materials.

These days there is a high demand for pili grass and alang alang thatching. Bali s thatched roofs are usually made of alang alang or ijuk while sugar cane is a commonly used material in kenya. The soil roots and flowering spikes were trimmed and the pili bunch was ready for use. All with the same intention in mind to give your home or business the perfect tropical shade covering.

We prefer the term pili grass though.