The Polynesian settlers brought with them mai'a (banana) on their long voyage to Hawaiʻi. It is known as a canoe plant - a crop essential for island living. Not only was maiʻa used as sustenance, but as an offering to aliʻi (ruling chief), a highly regarded gift, and as medicine for various ailments. Fruit was scarce in ancient Hawaiʻi and banana was one of only a handful available.