'Ahu 'awa, Cyperus Javanicus Description 'Ahu 'awa, is a marsh sedge with slightly angled stems growing between 40 and 100 cm. tall. It grows in or near marshes and taro patches. and looks like the umbrella plant. The "Ahu'awa has a cluster of long, narrow leaves at the base of the plant. It was used by Hawaiians to strain 'awa and was used to make cording.   Habitat Found in coastal marshes near salt, as well as brackish water. Sometimes found in taro patches. Most commonly found in marshes, along streams, and coastal patches in Hawaii. Found on all of the Hawaiian Islands except Kaho'olawe.

Propogation Full grown plants are broken up and placed in potting material. Seeds can be taken out of the fruit and placed in potting material. In less then two weeks, the seeds begin to germinate. Seedlings can be transplanted individually or in clumps when 2 inches tall.		Plants can grow in dry or wet ground and mature rapidly. They are able to be self-sustaining during a drought and they can maintain their strength in up to 8 inches of water. It grows well in sunlight or full shade.