Kava Cultivars Explained

What Is a Kava Cultivar?

A kava cultivar is a specific cultivated variety of the kava plant (Piper methysticum).

Just as there are many varieties of grapes used to make wine, there are many different kava cultivars grown throughout the Pacific Islands. Each cultivar has its own characteristics, growing habits, flavour profile and traditional history.

The cultivar of a kava plant is one of the most important factors influencing the final kava experience. Other factors such as growing conditions, soil quality, root age, harvesting methods and processing techniques also play an important role.

Understanding cultivars can help kava drinkers make more informed purchasing decisions and appreciate the diversity found throughout the Pacific.

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Noble Kava Cultivars

Most high-quality kava sold throughout Fiji, Vanuatu, Tonga and Australia comes from noble kava cultivars.

Noble cultivars have a long history of traditional use and are generally regarded as the preferred choice for traditional kava preparation.

At Kava Pros, we focus exclusively on premium noble kava sourced from respected growing regions in Fiji.

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Cultivars vs Regions vs Root Types

Many people confuse cultivars with regions or root components.

These are three separate concepts.

Cultivar

The specific variety of kava plant being grown.

Examples include:

• Damu

• Vula

Region

The geographical location where the kava is grown.

Examples include:

• Savusavu

• Vanua Levu

• Viti Levu

Root Type

The part of the plant used during processing.

Examples include:

• Waka (lateral roots)

• Lewena (basal root)

• Whole root blends

All three factors influence the final product.

For example, two products may contain the same cultivar but be grown in different regions. Likewise, two products may contain the same cultivar but use different root compositions.

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Kava Pros Cultivars

Damu

Damu is one of Fiji's recognised noble kava cultivars and is highly regarded among traditional kava drinkers.

Known for its strong traditional character, Damu has become popular among customers seeking a distinctive Fijian kava experience.

Like all cultivars, the exact characteristics of Damu can vary depending on growing conditions, harvest age and processing methods. However, many experienced kava drinkers appreciate Damu for its rich flavour profile and traditional Fijian heritage.

Damu remains one of the flagship cultivars within the Kava Pros range.

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Vula

Vula is another respected noble Fijian cultivar and has developed a strong following among Australian kava drinkers.

Many customers describe Vula as a balanced cultivar that showcases the qualities that have made Fijian kava popular throughout the Pacific and beyond.

Its popularity stems from both its traditional roots and its consistency when prepared using traditional methods.

For customers exploring different cultivars for the first time, Vula is often considered an excellent introduction to single-cultivar Fijian kava.

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Savusavu Origin

Savusavu Origin is unique within the Kava Pros range because it is primarily identified by its growing region rather than a single named cultivar.

Savusavu is located on Fiji's second-largest island, Vanua Levu, and has long been recognised as one of Fiji's most respected kava-growing regions.

The area's fertile soil, climate and growing conditions contribute to the distinctive characteristics associated with kava sourced from this region.

Savusavu Origin allows customers to experience kava that reflects the traditions and agricultural heritage of one of Fiji's most renowned producing regions.

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Traditional Fijian Kava

Traditional Fijian Kava represents the style of kava most Australians associate with authentic Fijian kava preparation.

Rather than focusing on a single cultivar, traditional Fijian kava may incorporate multiple noble cultivars selected to provide consistency and balance.

For many customers, this style serves as an excellent introduction to traditional kava because it reflects the broader characteristics that have made Fijian kava respected throughout the Pacific.

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Platinum Lewena

Platinum Lewena differs slightly from the other products in the range because it refers primarily to the root component used during processing rather than a specific cultivar.

Lewena refers to the basal root or stump portion of the kava plant.

Many kava drinkers appreciate lewena products for their smooth flavour profile and traditional preparation characteristics.

Platinum Lewena demonstrates how root selection can influence a kava product alongside cultivar and region.

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Why Cultivars Matter

Understanding cultivars helps consumers appreciate the diversity that exists within the kava world.

Just as coffee drinkers may explore beans from different regions or wine enthusiasts may compare grape varieties, kava drinkers often enjoy exploring different cultivars and growing regions.

Factors that can influence a kava product include:

• Cultivar

• Growing region

• Soil conditions

• Climate

• Harvest age

• Processing methods

• Root composition

• Preparation method

No single cultivar is universally considered "best." Individual preference plays a significant role.

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Single Cultivar vs Blended Kava

Some kava products contain a single cultivar, while others combine multiple cultivars.

Single Cultivar Kava

Single cultivar products allow customers to experience the characteristics associated with one particular variety of kava plant.

Many enthusiasts enjoy single cultivar products because they provide a more focused representation of that cultivar.

Blended Kava

Blended kava combines multiple cultivars to create a balanced and consistent product.

Many traditional kava products use blends because they can provide greater consistency from batch to batch.

Both approaches have long histories of use throughout the Pacific Islands.

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How To Choose The Right Cultivar

The best cultivar depends on personal preference.

If you're new to kava, Traditional Fijian Kava or a Starter Pack is often the easiest place to begin.

If you're interested in exploring specific noble cultivars, Damu and Vula provide an opportunity to experience two respected Fijian varieties.

If you're interested in regional differences, Savusavu Origin offers insight into one of Fiji's most recognised kava-growing regions.

As your experience grows, exploring different cultivars becomes one of the most rewarding aspects of traditional kava.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a kava cultivar?

A cultivar is a specific cultivated variety of the kava plant.

Are all kava cultivars the same?

No. Different cultivars can have unique growing characteristics, flavour profiles and traditional histories.

What is the difference between a cultivar and a region?

A cultivar refers to the variety of kava plant, while a region refers to where the kava is grown.

Is Damu a cultivar?

Yes. Damu is a recognised noble Fijian kava cultivar.

Is Vula a cultivar?

Yes. Vula is a noble Fijian kava cultivar grown in Fiji.

Is Savusavu a cultivar?

No. Savusavu refers to a growing region in Fiji rather than a cultivar.

What is the best kava cultivar?

There is no single best cultivar. The ideal choice depends on individual preference, preparation style and the characteristics a customer is seeking.