Åkgak
| Pandanus sp. | |
|---|---|
 |
|
| åkgak growing at Tweksbury Beach Park, Luta, CNMI | |
| Scientific classification | |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Clade | Tracheophytes |
| Clade | Angiosperms |
| Clade | Monocots |
| Order | Pandanales |
| Family | Pandanaceae |
| Genus | Pandanus |
| Species: | P. tectorius |
| Binomial name: | |
| Pandanus sp. Parkinson ex Du Roi |
|
| Synonyms | |
No synonyms listed |
|
Åkgak is the Chamorro word for the plant and leaves of the a tree which is currently labeled as Pandanus tectorius. Åkgak leaves are traditionally harvested and processed for weaving. It is considered a superior fiber source compared to wild-growing kaffo'.
Cultural Use
- Used for weaving kostat tengguang, kottot, baskets, mats, and hats.
- Only leaves from male trees are typically used for their softness and strength.
Botanical Information
Although åkgak is currently labeled with the binomial Pandanus tectorius, it differs in morphology from kaffo'. It's growth habit, leaf morphology, and leaf quality are the main differences observed by Chamorro cultural pratitioners. It must be planted from cuttings as the only known åkgak tree sex is male. It readily mañusu (produces side shoots) near the ground and will exhibit a crawling habit if not maintained by the grower. Additionally, the leaves are a different color from kaffo' being a brighter green and possessing a prominent glaucous waxy coating which gives the leaves a blueish green hue. The thorns are finer, a lighter color, and much more uniform in size and spacing as compared to other types of Marianas pandanus. The trees are generally replanted around 10-15 years old when they've grown too tall and start producing shorter leaves. Contrary to published descriptions, åkgak flowers are known to practitioners and routinely seen during the life of the tree. They are short lived.
- Binomial: Pandanus tectorius
- Family: Pandanaceae
Related Vocabulary
Gallery
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åkgak tree -
åkgak inflorescence -
åkgak inflorescence
