What Are Hawaiian Flowers Called and How to Identify Them
What Are Hawaiian Flowers Called?
Hawaiian flowers are called “Pua Hawai’i.” They include a variety of species such as plumeria, yellow hibiscus, bird of paradise, pikake, ohia lehua, naupaka, nanu, hinahina, uki uki, koʻoloaʻula, pua kala, ma’o hau hele, Chinese hibiscus, Hawaiian hibiscus, molokai ohaha, kanawao, haha, mamane, alulu, koki’o, nehe, oahu pilo kea, ohe ‘ohe, ma’ohi’ohi, Hawaiian iliau, ohi’a lehua, oahu riverhemp, ‘ilima, cosmosflower beggarticks, and Hawaiian red cranesbill.
Key Points:
- Hawaiian flowers are called “Pua Hawai’i”
- Includes various species like plumeria, yellow hibiscus, bird of paradise, pikake, ohia lehua, naupaka, nanu, hinahina, uki uki, ko’oloa’ula, pua kala, ma’o hau hele, Chinese hibiscus, Hawaiian hibiscus, molokai ohaha, kanawao, haha, mamane, alulu, koki’o, nehe, oahu pilo kea, ohe ‘ohe.
- Also includes ma’ohi’ohi, Hawaiian iliau, ohi’a lehua, oahu riverhemp, ‘ilima, cosmosflower beggarticks, and Hawaiian red cranesbill.
Did You Know?
1. Hawaiian flowers, commonly known as “pua” in the Hawaiian language, have a special cultural significance and are often used in traditional lei-making.
2. Did you know that the colorful Hibiscus flower, also known as “Pua Aloalo” in Hawaiian, is the state flower of Hawaii?
3. The Plumeria flower, known as “Melia” in Hawaiian, is not only known for its beauty but also for its symbolic meaning of positivity and embracing a new beginning.
4. While many people associate the hibiscus flower with Hawaii, the endemic “naupaka” flower also has deep Hawaiian cultural roots and is often found near the ocean.
5. Did you know that the official state lei of Hawaii is called “Ilima,” named after the bright yellow flower found primarily in the Hawaiian Islands?
Plumeria: A Popular Hawaiian Flower
Plumeria, known as melia in Hawaiian, is one of the most popular and iconic flowers found in Hawaii. This beautiful flower is revered for its enchanting fragrance and vibrant colors. Plumerias come in various hues, including white, yellow, pink, and red, and are often used to make traditional leis, which are floral garlands worn as a symbol of welcome, celebration, or love.
The plumeria’s distinct shape is characterized by its five narrow petals arranged in a spiral pattern around a central pistil. These flowers can be found blossoming on trees throughout the Hawaiian islands, with their vibrant colors and sweet scent attracting both locals and visitors alike. Not only do they enhance the natural beauty of the islands, but they also hold cultural significance in Hawaiian traditions and rituals.
In addition to their beauty and fragrance, plumeria flowers are also known for their healing properties. The oil derived from these flowers is used in traditional Hawaiian medicine to treat various ailments, including skin irritations, inflammation, and digestive issues. Plumeria trees can be found in many Hawaiian gardens, making it easy to identify and enjoy these tropical treasures.
Yellow Hibiscus: Hawaii’s Official State Flower
The yellow hibiscus, scientifically known as hibiscus brackenridgei, is not only a stunning flower but also holds the honor of being Hawaii’s official state flower. Also known as the pua aloalo in Hawaiian, this flower is native to the islands and can be found in shades ranging from bright yellow to pale lemon.
The yellow hibiscus is characterized by its large, showy petals and prominent stamens. Its vibrant color and intricate structure make it a captivating sight to behold. In Hawaiian culture, the yellow hibiscus symbolizes power, royalty, and delicate beauty. It is often featured in Hawaiian art, including paintings, sculptures, and jewelry, as a representation of the islands’ natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Identifying the yellow hibiscus is relatively easy. Look for:
- a large, single flower
- conspicuous yellow petals
- a prominent yellow center
This iconic Hawaiian flower can be found in gardens, parks, and even along roadsides throughout the islands, adding a splash of color and tropical charm to the landscape.
Bird Of Paradise: Exotic Beauty From The Islands
The bird of paradise, known as strelitzia reginae in botanical terms, is not native to Hawaii but has become synonymous with the exotic beauty of the islands. This striking flower, also called manu-o-ku or ninau, resembles a colorful bird in flight, with its vibrant orange and blue petals resembling feathers. Its unique shape and bold colors make it a popular choice for floral arrangements, adding a touch of tropical elegance.
Originally from South Africa, the bird of paradise was introduced to Hawaii in the late 19th century. Since then, it has thrived in the islands’ favorable climate and can be spotted in gardens, parks, and even in private yards throughout Hawaii. Its tall stalks and large, fan-like leaves make it easy to identify from a distance.
The bird of paradise is not just a beautiful flower; it also has cultural significance in Hawaiian lore. It is believed to symbolize paradise, joy, and freedom, evoking a sense of escape to a tropical paradise. This flower’s unique appearance and vibrant colors make it a standout in any Hawaiian landscape, adding a touch of exotic allure.
- The bird of paradise, also known as strelitzia reginae, is a striking flower resembling a colorful bird in flight.
- Its vibrant orange and blue petals resemble feathers, adding to its beauty.
- Originally from South Africa, it was introduced to Hawaii in the late 19th century.
- It thrives in Hawaii’s favorable climate and can be found in gardens, parks, and private yards.
- The bird of paradise is easy to spot due to its tall stalks and fan-like leaves.
- In Hawaiian lore, it symbolizes paradise, joy, and freedom, adding to its cultural significance.
“The bird of paradise: a flower evoking a sense of escape to a tropical paradise.”
Pikake: The Fragrant Hawaiian Jasmine
Pikake, also known as Hawaiian jasmine or jasminum sambac, is a highly fragrant flower that holds a special place in Hawaiian culture. This delicate white flower emits a captivating fragrance, earning it the nickname “the perfume of love.” It is a popular choice for leis and essential oils used in traditional Hawaiian rituals and ceremonies.
The pikake flower, with its small, star-like petals and bright yellow center, is often associated with love, desire, and beauty. It is frequently worn as a symbol of affection or given as a gift to express admiration. Locals and visitors alike can easily identify this flower by its enchanting scent and elegant appearance.
Pikake flowers can be found in gardens and on pikake bushes throughout the islands. The fragrance of these blossoms wafts through the air, creating a sense of serenity and tranquility. The pikake’s enticing perfume, combined with its symbolic significance, makes it an essential part of the Hawaiian floral landscape.
Ohia Lehua: Symbolic Flower Of Hawaii
The ohia lehua, also known as metrosideros polymorpha, is a symbol of Hawaii’s volcanic origins and resilience. This vibrant red flower, which blossoms atop the ohia tree, holds great cultural significance in Hawaiian folklore. Legend has it that the ohia tree and lehua flower represent the unbreakable bond between two lovers, symbolizing everlasting love and devotion.
The ohia lehua’s fiery red petals are a striking contrast to the lush green foliage of the ohia tree. The flower’s distinctive shape, with multiple stamens protruding from its center, adds to its intrigue. Ohia lehua flowers can be found throughout the Hawaiian islands, dotting the landscape with bursts of vivid color and natural beauty.
These flowers are not only visually appealing but also attract unique bird species found in Hawaii, such as the i’iwi and apapane, which feed on the nectar of the ohia lehua. Their presence further enhances the allure of these beautiful blossoms, making them an integral part of Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem.
In Hawaiian folklore, the ohia tree and lehua flower represent the unbreakable bond between two lovers, symbolizing everlasting love and devotion.
- The ohia lehua’s fiery red petals create a striking contrast to the lush green foliage of the ohia tree.
- The flower’s distinctive shape, with multiple stamens protruding from its center, adds to its intrigue.
- Ohia lehua flowers can be found throughout the Hawaiian islands, dotting the landscape with bursts of vivid color and natural beauty.
These flowers also play a significant role in Hawaii’s delicate ecosystem by attracting unique bird species, such as the i’iwi and apapane, which feed on their nectar.
To truly appreciate the incredible diversity and significance of Hawaiian flowers, one must experience them firsthand, taking in their visual splendor, intoxicating fragrances, and rich cultural heritage.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Hawaiian flower thing called?
The traditional Hawaiian floral adornment is known as a lei. A lei is a symbolic offering of flowers given in Hawaii as a gesture of welcome or farewell. These vibrant garlands or necklaces are typically made with an array of beautiful flowers such as carnations, kika blossoms, ginger blossoms, jasmine blossoms, or orchids. Approximately 18 inches long, a lei is bestowed upon someone along with a welcoming kiss, symbolizing the warmth and hospitality of the Hawaiian culture.
What is the real name of the Hawaiian flower?
The true name of the Hawaiian flower is the yellow hibiscus, scientifically known as hibiscus brackenridgei. It is also referred to by the native Hawaiians as pua mao hau hele. This vibrant flower holds the honor of being the official state flower of Hawaii, showcasing its significance and beauty in the tropical paradise.
What is Hawaii most beautiful flower?
The beauty of Hawaii’s vibrant flora is best embodied by the iconic Hawaiian hibiscus. This captivating flower boasts an array of colors and patterns, with each species radiating its unique charm. While all the native hibiscus species are stunning, the yellow hibiscus, also known as Ma’o hau hele, holds the coveted title of Hawaii’s state flower. Its radiant golden petals symbolize the islands’ sunny warmth and exude the spirit of aloha. These captivating flowers trace their roots back to different colonization events, showcasing the diverse journey of Hawaii’s floral heritage.
What is the flower of love in Hawaii?
In the beautiful archipelago of Hawaii, the flower that reigns supreme as the emblem of love is the delicate and enchanting plumeria. Adored for its vibrant colors and captivating fragrance, the plumeria holds a deep significance in Hawaiian culture, representing not only love, but also beauty and grace. Its petals are reminiscent of tender affections and its fragrance whispers of romance, making it a fitting symbol of love in the paradise of Hawaii.