The Hawaiian archipelago is globally recognized for its lush, vibrant landscape, home to an extraordinary variety of tropical flora. The islands’ unique, isolated ecosystems have fostered the evolution of numerous plant species found nowhere else on Earth. While this floral diversity is captivating, one bloom officially represents the state’s natural beauty and rich heritage. This article explores the specific flower designated as the state emblem and highlights other iconic blossoms synonymous with the spirit of Aloha.
Hawaii’s Official Floral Emblem
Hawaii’s official state flower is the yellow hibiscus, scientifically known as Hibiscus brackenridgei. In the Hawaiian language, this native plant is called Maʻo Hau Hele. The designation of this specific yellow variety was made official by the state legislature in 1988, though the hibiscus genus had been the territorial flower since the 1920s.
The Maʻo Hau Hele is a large, showy blossom, typically measuring four to six inches in diameter. Unlike the more common red or pink varieties, the yellow hibiscus is endemic, meaning it grows naturally only in Hawaii. It can take the form of a sprawling shrub or a small tree, sometimes reaching heights of up to 33 feet in dry forests and shrublands. The official selection of this endemic species celebrates the islands’ unique biodiversity and promotes the conservation of native Hawaiian plants.
Other Celebrated Tropical Blooms
Beyond the official state flower, several other blossoms have become visually and aromatically associated with the Hawaiian Islands.
Plumeria
The Plumeria, or Melia in Hawaiian, is arguably the most recognizable, despite not being native to the islands. Its fragrant, star-shaped flowers bloom in clusters of white, yellow, pink, and red, filling the air with a sweet scent. Plumeria is ubiquitous in the Hawaiian landscape, having been introduced in 1860, and thrives in the warm, tropical climate.
Orchids and Anthuriums
Orchids represent another extensive group of celebrated Hawaiian flowers, often used in elegant arrangements and long-lasting leis. Their intricate and varied forms, from the delicate Dendrobiums to the large Cattleyas, make them popular for formal occasions. The Anthurium, easily identified by its distinctive heart-shaped, waxy spathe, is also highly celebrated. Although not native, the Anthurium’s striking, long-lasting appearance has made it a commercial favorite, symbolizing hospitality and often decorating hotel lobbies and restaurants.
The Role of Flowers in Hawaiian Tradition
The most profound application of flowers in Hawaiian culture is the creation and presentation of the lei, a garland that embodies the spirit of aloha. This tradition was brought to the islands by early Polynesian voyagers, who crafted the wreaths from native flowers, leaves, seeds, and even shells and feathers. The lei is far more than a decorative accessory; it is a tangible expression of welcome, respect, love, and celebration.
Giving a lei is a gesture of goodwill, and receiving one should be accepted with gratitude, as it is considered impolite to refuse a lei once offered. The garland is traditionally worn draped over the shoulders, resting evenly across the chest and back. In ancient times, leis were used to signify rank or royalty, but today they are exchanged to mark nearly every special occasion. Flowers are also interwoven into traditional Hawaiian performance, adorning the hair and costumes of hula dancers during ceremonies and festive gatherings.