This true native Hawaiian palm used to be one of the most common plants on the landscape, forming entire forests with loulu canopy. Unfortunately, the introduction of rats, who began eating the seeds of the palm, has caused our native palms to become nearly extinct in the wild. The last remaining loulu forest exists on a rocky outcropping off the coast of Molokai.

The palm fronds of the loulu provided excellent material for roofing, lasting longer than grass materials. These fronds were also used weaving, typically to make pāpale (hat) that was more rain resistant. Some of the seeds are edible. Loulu was long thought to be a montane-only species, but it was discovered that it is only absent from the lowlands due to overharvesting.

Unsurprisingly, loulu can generally grow happily without much maintenance. They prefer more direct sun, but be wary of overheating. The fronds will begin to turn brown. They can last for a few days without water, but prefer to be watered regularly. Be cognizant of pests that colonize the plant.