25 Hawaiian Flower: A Blooming Paradise Explained of 2024
Hawaii is a paradise not just because of its stunning beaches and majestic volcanoes, but also due to its vibrant and diverse flora.
The flowers of Hawaii are as unique as the islands themselves, with each bloom carrying a piece of the rich cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates beauty, Hawaiian flowers are sure to capture your heart.
The Cultural Significance of Hawaiian Flowers
Hawaiian flowers aren’t just pretty to look at—they’re deeply woven into the fabric of Hawaiian culture. These blooms have been used for centuries in various traditional ceremonies, each one symbolizing different aspects of life, love, and nature.
Flowers of Hawaiian in Traditional Ceremonies
Flowers play a vital role in Hawaiian traditions, from weddings to funerals, and even in daily life. The iconic Hawaiian lei, a garland of flowers worn around the neck, is perhaps the most famous use of these blooms. Leis are given as a symbol of affection, respect, and good luck.
The Symbolism of Flowers of Hawaiian
Each flower in Hawaii carries its own meaning. For example, the Hibiscus is often associated with delicate beauty and femininity, while the Plumeria symbolizes birth and love. Understanding these symbols adds a deeper layer of appreciation for these beautiful blooms.
25 Popular Hawaiian Flowers You Should Know
Hawaii is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, and much of this beauty comes from the vibrant and diverse flowers that thrive on the islands. From native species to introduced varieties, the flowers of Hawaii are as unique as they are breathtaking. Below, we explore 25 popular Flowers of Hawaiian you should know, each with its distinct charm and significance.
1. Hibiscus (Hibiscus brackenridgei)
Description: Known as the state flower of Hawaii, the yellow Hibiscus is a symbol of delicate beauty. With large, showy blooms, Hibiscus flowers are commonly found in gardens and landscapes across the islands.
Cultural Significance: Traditionally, women wear Hibiscus flowers behind their ears. Wearing it on the left indicates that the woman is married while wearing it on the right suggests she is available.
2. Plumeria (Plumeria spp.)
Description: Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, is a fragrant flower often used in making leis. It comes in a variety of colors including white, yellow, pink, and red.
Cultural Significance: Plumeria leis are given during special occasions as symbols of good fortune, love, and respect.
3. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Description: The Bird of Paradise is named for its resemblance to a bird in flight. Its vibrant orange and blue petals make it one of the most iconic tropical flowers.
Cultural Significance: This flower is often used in Hawaiian gardens and floral arrangements, symbolizing joyfulness and paradise.
4. Orchid (Orchidaceae)
Description: Hawaii is home to over 200 species of orchids, known for their exotic and diverse forms. They are often found in gardens, homes, and rainforests.
Cultural Significance: Orchids are prized for their beauty and are commonly used in leis, weddings, and other ceremonies.
5. Heliconia (Heliconia spp.)
Description: Also known as Lobster Claw, Heliconia flowers are striking with their bright red, orange, or yellow bracts. They are a popular choice in tropical landscapes.
Cultural Significance: Heliconias are often associated with fertility and abundance.
6. Pikake (Jasminum sambac)
Description: Pikake is a type of jasmine known for its sweet fragrance and small, white flowers. It is often used in making leis.
Cultural Significance: Pikake leis are commonly worn by brides and used in religious ceremonies, symbolizing purity and love.
7. Ginger (Zingiberaceae)
Description: Hawaiian ginger flowers, particularly Red Ginger, are tall and striking with their vibrant red or pink bracts.
Cultural Significance: Ginger flowers are often used in traditional Hawaiian medicine and as ornamental plants.
8. Anthurium (Anthurium andraeanum)
Description: Anthuriums are known for their glossy, heart-shaped spathes and bright red, pink, or white colors. They are a staple in Hawaiian floral arrangements.
Cultural Significance: Anthuriums symbolize hospitality and are often used in home decorations.
9. Ohia Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha)
Description: The Ohia Lehua is a native Hawaiian plant with bright red, pom-pom-like flowers. It grows on lava flows, symbolizing strength and resilience.
Cultural Significance: In Hawaiian mythology, the Ohia Lehua is associated with love and fidelity.
10. Tuberose (Polianthes tuberosa)
Description: Tuberose is a fragrant flower with creamy white blooms. It is often used in leis and perfumes.
Cultural Significance: Tuberose leis are given as a sign of respect and honor during significant events.
11. Naupaka (Scaevola spp.)
Description: Naupaka flowers are unique with their half-bloom appearance. They are found both in the mountains and along the coastlines of Hawaii.
Cultural Significance: According to Hawaiian legend, Naupaka flowers represent the love story of two lovers separated by fate.
12. Ilima (Sida fallax)
Description: The Ilima is a small, yellow flower that grows in clusters. It is often used in making leis, particularly for royalty.
Cultural Significance: The Ilima flower is associated with royalty and is traditionally used in leis for Hawaiian ali’i (chiefs).
13. Lokelani (Rosa chinensis)
Description: Lokelani, also known as the Maui Rose, is a pink rose that is the official flower of Maui. It is known for its delicate beauty and fragrance.
Cultural Significance: Lokelani symbolizes love and romance in Hawaiian culture.
14. Hau (Hibiscus tiliaceus)
Description: Hau flowers are yellow with a dark red center. The tree is commonly found along coastlines and is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves.
Cultural Significance: The Hau tree is used for making canoes and traditional Hawaiian instruments.
15. Kukui (Aleurites moluccanus)
Description: Kukui blossoms are small, white, and star-shaped. The Kukui tree is Hawaii’s state tree and its nuts are used in making leis.
Cultural Significance: Kukui symbolizes enlightenment and protection. The oil from its nuts was traditionally used for lighting lamps.
16. Puakenikeni (Fagraea berteroana)
Description: Puakenikeni flowers are small and tubular, turning from white to yellow as they age. They are highly fragrant and commonly used in leis.
Cultural Significance: Puakenikeni leis are cherished for their strong fragrance and are often given on special occasions.
17. Uluhe (Dicranopteris linearis)
Description: Uluhe is a type of fern that covers the landscape with its sprawling growth. It is often found in the upland forests of Hawaii.
Cultural Significance: Uluhe ferns are used in traditional Hawaiian hula as skirts and adornments.
18. Ti (Cordyline fruticosa)
Description: The Ti plant has long, green, or red leaves and is often used in landscaping and lei making. The plant is associated with good luck.
Cultural Significance: Ti leaves are used in ceremonies to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune.
19. Maile (Alyxia oliviformis)
Description: Maile is a fragrant vine with small, shiny leaves and tiny white flowers. It is often used in leis for weddings and other special occasions.
Cultural Significance: Maile leis symbolize respect and are often given as a sign of honor.
20. Silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense)
Description: The Silversword is a rare and endangered plant with spiky, silver leaves and purple flowers. It grows only at high altitudes on Maui and the Big Island.
Cultural Significance: The Silversword is revered for its rarity and symbolizes the unique beauty of Hawaii’s natural landscape.
21. Mokihana (Pelea anisata)
Description: Mokihana is a small, green berry from the Kauai native tree. The berries are fragrant and used in lei making.
Cultural Significance: Mokihana leis are unique to the island of Kauai and are often worn during festivals and celebrations.
22. Akulikuli (Sesuvium portulacastrum)
Description: Akulikuli is a succulent plant with small, purple flowers. It grows in coastal areas and is known for its resilience.
Cultural Significance: Akulikuli symbolizes endurance and adaptability in Hawaiian culture.
23. Wiliwili (Erythrina sandwicensis)
Description: Wiliwili is a native Hawaiian tree with bright orange or red flowers. The wood of the Wiliwili tree is lightweight and was traditionally used for making surfboards.
Cultural Significance: Wiliwili flowers are associated with the summer season and are often used in lei making.
24. Blue Ginger (Dichorisandra thyrsiflora)
Description: Blue Ginger is not a true ginger but a member of the Commelinaceae family. It has striking blue-purple flowers and is often used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
Cultural Significance: Blue Ginger symbolizes uniqueness and rarity due to its uncommon color in tropical flowers.
25. Lehua (Metrosideros collina)
Description: Lehua flowers are part of the Ohia tree and come in bright red, yellow, or orange. The Lehua bloom is often the first sign of new life on lava flows.
Cultural Significance: Lehua flowers are deeply connected to Hawaiian mythology and represent strength, resilience, and renewal.
Growing Flowers of Hawaiian: Tips and Tricks
Interested in bringing a bit of Hawaiian paradise to your garden? Growing Flowers of Hawaiian can be a rewarding experience if you follow these simple tips:
Choosing the Right Soil and Climate
Flowers of Hawaiian thrive in well-drained soil and a warm, humid climate. If you’re growing these flowers outside of Hawaii, you’ll need to replicate these conditions as closely as possible. Consider using potting mixes designed for tropical plants and keep them in a sunny, humid environment.
Watering and Fertilizing
Proper watering is crucial for Flowers of Hawaiian. Most of these plants prefer to be kept moist but not waterlogged. Overwatering can lead to root rot, while underwatering can cause the flowers to wilt. Fertilizing with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer will also promote healthy growth and vibrant blooms.
Pest Control and Maintenance
Flowers of Hawaiian can be prone to pests such as aphids, spider mites, and mealybugs. Regularly inspecting your plants and using organic pest control methods, such as neem oil, can help keep these pests at bay. Pruning dead or damaged parts of the plant will also encourage new growth and prevent disease.
Where to Find Flowers of Hawaiian?
If you’re planning a trip to Hawaii or just want to explore more about these beautiful blooms, here are some of the best places to find Flowers of Hawaiian:
Exploring Hawaiian Gardens and Parks
Hawaii is home to numerous botanical gardens and parks where you can see a wide variety of native flowers in their natural habitat. Places like the Foster Botanical Garden in Honolulu and the Hawaii Tropical Botanical Garden on the Big Island are must-visits for any flower enthusiast.
Flowers of Hawaiian Festivals
Throughout the year, Hawaii hosts several festivals dedicated to its native flora. The Merrie Monarch Festival in Hilo and the Lei Day celebrations across the islands are perfect opportunities to immerse yourself in the beauty and culture of Flowers of Hawaiian.
People also ask
What is the traditional flower of Hawaii?
The traditional flower of Hawaii is the yellow Hibiscus (Hibiscus brackenridgei), also known as Pua Aloalo. It is the official state flower and is cherished for its vibrant beauty and cultural significance.
What are the 5 petal flowers in Hawaii?
The five-petal flower commonly found in Hawaii is the Plumeria. Known for its sweet fragrance and vibrant colors, Plumeria is often used in making leis and is a symbol of beauty and grace in Hawaiian culture.
What are the flowers called that Hawaiians wear?
The flowers that Hawaiians wear are called leis. These garlands are typically made from fragrant flowers like Plumeria, Pikake, or Orchids and are worn around the neck to symbolize love, respect, and aloha.
What is the Hawaiian name flower?
The Hawaiian word for flower is “pua.” This term is often used in names, poetry, and songs to represent the beauty and the natural splendor of the islands.
Conclusion
Flowers of Hawaiian are more than just beautiful—they’re a living part of the island’s rich culture and history. Whether you’re admiring a Hibiscus in full bloom or wearing a fragrant Plumeria lei, these flowers offer a unique connection to the spirit of Hawaii. By understanding their cultural significance and learning how to grow them, you can bring a piece of this tropical paradise into your own life.
I’m George, the heart and soul behind The Daily Gardening. Gardening has always been a passion of mine, and I’m thrilled to share that enthusiasm with you through this website.
