`Olena, Turmeric
Curcuma domesticaThe family of Gingers, Zingiberaceae, includes this Polynesian introduction to Hawaii. It is less common today mostly seen in low-land gardens, and sometimes wild in areas the ancient people had under cultivation. The plant dies back between December and April, so it's a great "calendar" plant. Hawaiians used the yellow/orange root for dye, spice, and medicine.