Hawaii, a chain of islands renowned for its natural splendor, captivates visitors with its vibrant floral landscape. While one bloom is the official state flower, numerous other blossoms are widely recognized symbols of this tropical paradise. These flowers contribute to Hawaii’s unique visual identity and rich botanical heritage.
Hawaii’s Official State Flower
Hawaii’s official state flower is the Yellow Hibiscus, Hibiscus brackenridgei, locally known as Maʻo Hau Hele. This native Hawaiian species was formally designated in 1988, distinguishing it from the general hibiscus recognized as the territorial flower since the 1920s. Its selection aimed to honor Hawaii’s unique endemic flora and emphasize native species preservation.
Maʻo Hau Hele blossoms typically measure 5-6 inches across, featuring bright yellow petals that often display a reddish or maroon center. A long yellow stamen extends from the flower’s core. These flowers are generally short-lived, lasting about a day, and are fully open during midday. The plant ranges from a sprawling shrub to a small tree, sometimes reaching up to 30 feet tall in its natural environment, though it is more commonly seen as a 3-15 foot shrub in gardens.
This yellow hibiscus is endemic to Hawaii, found nowhere else in the world. It thrives in lowland dry to mesic forests and shrublands, from sea level up to 2,600 feet across Hawaiʻi, Maui, Lanaʻi, and historically on Molokai, Oʻahu, and Kauaʻi. Despite its state flower status, Hibiscus brackenridgei is an endangered species in the wild, with very few populations remaining, highlighting ongoing conservation efforts.
Beyond the Official: Other Iconic Hawaiian Blooms
Beyond the official state flower, Hawaii’s landscape is adorned with a variety of other iconic blooms. Plumeria, also known as Frangipani, was introduced from tropical Americas. These blossoms are distinguished by their five petals, growing in clusters, and come in vibrant shades of white, yellow, pink, orange, and red, emitting a strong, sweet fragrance, especially at night. Thousands of plumeria varieties have been cultivated.
Orchids represent another prominent floral group in Hawaii, with numerous species and hybrids flourishing. While few orchid species are native, many introduced varieties have naturalized and are widely cultivated. These diverse flowers showcase an extensive range of colors, sizes, and intricate shapes, thriving in Hawaii’s warm, humid climate.
Anthurium, often called the “flamingo flower,” is distinctive for its waxy, heart-shaped spathes, which are modified leaves, not true flowers. These vibrant structures display a wide spectrum of colors, including reds, pinks, whites, greens, and oranges. Native to Central and South American rainforests, anthuriums flourish in the islands’ humid, shaded environments.
Pikake, or Arabian Jasmine (Jasminum sambac), is a beloved flower known for its small, delicate white blossoms and intense, sweet fragrance. The name “pikake” translates to “peacock,” reportedly given by Princess Kaʻiulani. These flowers are prized for their captivating scent and are often strung into leis.
Flowers in Hawaiian Culture and Tradition
Flowers hold deep cultural significance in Hawaiian life. The tradition of lei-making is central, where garlands crafted from various flowers, leaves, and other materials are exchanged as symbols of affection, welcome, respect, and honor. Leis have a long history, used in ancient times to signify peace or denote status.
Giving or receiving a lei is a meaningful gesture, representing a connection to the community and the aloha spirit. Leis are common at special occasions like graduations, weddings, and parties, and are often given to visitors as a warm welcome. The circular shape of a lei symbolizes a circle of love and community.
Flowers are integral to hula performances, incorporated into dancers’ adornments. Beyond formal ceremonies, flowers are worn daily as personal adornment, such as tucking a plumeria behind an ear, which can convey romantic status. This use of flowers underscores their role in expressing the warmth and hospitality of Hawaiian culture.