Dye fig

Mati is a kind of fig tree often saxicolous, meaning living naturally on rocks. It has aerial roots (see photo) and looks like a small banyan according to Teuria Henry (T. Henry, 2004). Fruits of mati are edible and are used for dyeing when they are associated with leaves of Tou (Cordia subcordata). This reddish dye is employed to paint "tapa" (bark clothes) or even the skin. These figs also have medicinal properties. Fibers from its bark is used to make ropes or nets for fishing, it is very resistant.