The green palanma has been used for handicraft work in the Choiseul are for many years. The green and yellow palanma is a more recent arrival but both are used for handicraft work. The fresh leaves can be dried in a local oven which makes it a white colour or dried leaves on the plant can be used which are light brown. The oven-dried leaves are softened in rain before use. The prickles must be removed and the leaves cut into thin strips. The leaves are platted and sown to make hats and baskets, chair seats,  even in olden days to make carnival costumes