Makaloa, Cyperus Laevigatus Description Makaloa is a creeping perennial sedge with roundish stems growing between 10-70 cm tall. From a creeping stem, there are many long erect stems tipped by an inflorescence, or flower. The narrow triangular flower grows from 3 to 12 inches high. Originally from Australia, the Makaloa was first found in Hawaii near Thomas Square in Oahu during the 1930s.   Habitat In Hawaii it grows on mud flats, sandy coastal areas and on the edge of fresh, brackish and saltwater ponds.

Propogation Plants should be divided into clumps with at least three leaves. The clumps need to have an underground stem with 10-15 stems clumped together for continual production. In one to two months, new stems will appear. It grows best in standing water., but can do equally well in shade or full sun.		In ancient Hawaii, the young plants were made into the finest mats. The stems were split and made into cloth, floor and bed covers, clothing, capes, and skirts. A cloak of Makaloa was made and worn as a cape by Kamehameha the Great. This cloak is on display in Bishop Museum on Oahu.