a large Hawaiian tree (Cordia subcordata) with hard, valuable reddish wood traditionally used for making canoes, bowls, and ceremonial objects by native Hawaiians.
From Hawaiian 'koa' (warrior, also the tree), derived from Proto-Polynesian roots. The tree's strength and durability made it sacred and valuable in Hawaiian culture.
The koa tree was so important to Hawaiian culture that it represented warriors and strength—master craftsmen spent months carving single canoes from koa logs that could navigate thousands of miles of ocean. Modern koa furniture costs thousands because the trees grow slowly and old-growth koa is nearly gone.
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