n. Hernandia nymphaeifolia, lantern tree

A large tree with a variety of uses. Its trunk is hollowed out to make canoes, and its wood is also used for handles of nets used in bird hunting. The fruits and seeds are used for necklaces (tui). On Nanumea, however, puka is not used for canoe building; fetau is used instead. Also called pukavai and pukavaka. Distinct from puka² and pukavai². See also: pukavai¹, pukavaka.