Leis have become synonymous with Hawaiian culture.
Hawaii's flowers are bright, diverse and a hugely important aspect of Hawaiian culture. Leis are effectively garlands, mostly worn around the neck, made out of flowers and other materials including shells, feathers and seeds. They are given as welcoming gifts and as a sign of affection or friendship. Almost any flower can be used to make leis and some are more widely used than others. In particular, each Hawaiian island has its own official flower and this flower will often be used as the predominant material for leis on that island.
Yellow Hibiscus
Hawaii's official flower is the yellow hibiscus (hibiscus brackenridgei). There were only originally very few hibiscus species native to Hawaii so many hibiscus varieties found in Hawaii today are a result of imported species and the subsequent development of hybrid varieties. As the yellow hibiscus is Hawaii's state flower, it is used widely in leis on all islands and can be easily spotted by the yellow coloring.
Yellow Ilima
The yellow ilima (Sida fallax) is the Hawaiian island of Oahu's official flower. This is another popular flower for usage in leis and the flowers are said to look like small hibiscuses. Approximately an inch in diameter each, ilima flowers were also traditionally used as a cure for some illnesses.
Red Ohia
The red ohia (Metrosideros collina polymorpha) is the official flower and lei material of the Big Island. The flower is from native ohia trees, which can also produce yellow, orange and white flowers. In Hawaiian folklore, the ohia represents the goddess Pele, a fiery goddess of volcanoes and fire.
Pink Lokelani
Maui's official flower, the pink lokelani (Rosa damascene) or pink cottage rose, is a non-native plant brought to the Hawaiian Islands from Asia in the 1800s. It is known for being a sweet-smelling rose and is popular for use not only in leis but in public and private gardens too.
White Kukui Blossom
Molokai's official flower is the white kukui blossom (Aleurites moluccana) and is characterized by its small white flowers. It is a popular flower of choice among lei-makers both on the island of Molokai and on the other islands. The kukui blossom comes from kukui trees, which grow in mountainous regions and moist valleys. The kukui's nuts and leaves are often used in leis, as well as the flowers.
Kaunaoa
The flower of Lanai Island, the kaunaoa (Cuscutaceae) is a plant that produces thin yellow and orange vines that are wound together to make leis. It is a rare species and can be difficult to find, but is still a favored material of lei-makers.
Tags: official flower, flower used, Hawaiian culture, Hawaiian island, kukui blossom, make leis