If you’ve ever been to Hawaii, you may remember the beautiful water, warm sunshine, and delicious food. But the fragrance of Hawaiian flowers will take you back better than anything else. These flowers are more than just decoration—they are deeply symbolic.
The Cultural Significance of Hawaiian Flowers
Flowers have always been a part of Polynesian culture. Tahiti, Samoa, and Hawaii are the most well-known for their use of florals in leis to honor each other and as gifts to the gods. They are deeply embedded in culture and are often used at milestones, major life events, and celebrations.
The presentation, choice of flowers, and color are all deeply spiritual and symbolic. Love, respect, friendship, and especially the spirit of Aloha are conveyed through giving these beautiful flowers. Understanding Hawaiian flower meanings can deepen your appreciation for their significance.
Popular Hawaiian Flower Meanings
Plumeria
Plumeria, also known as frangipani, is one of the most recognizable Hawaiian flowers. Its sweet fragrance and delicate petals make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
- Symbolism: Love, beauty, romance, and the spirit of Aloha. It is also associated with new beginnings, birth, and spring.
- Occasions: Plumeria is commonly used in leis to welcome guests or mark special milestones.
Hibiscus
While hibiscus flowers come in a variety of colors, the yellow hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii. It can be worn in a lei or as a single flower.
- Symbolism: Beauty, grace, and hospitality.
- Occasions: Hibiscus leis or garlands are often presented as a gesture of warm welcome or admiration.
Ginger
You may be familiar with the ginger root for cooking, but the ginger flower is commonly used in leis. With deep roots in Micronesian culture, this beautiful flower can symbolize different meanings based on its color.
- Red Ginger: Passion, tolerance, and wealth.
- White Ginger: Love and affection.
- Occasions: Ginger flowers are often included in ceremonial flower arrangements and leis for meaningful events.
Orchid
Though there are over 28,000 species of orchids in the world, only three are native to Hawaii. Orchids are one of the most popular flowers for leis, so you’ll see a wide variety of orchids used.
- Symbolism: Strength, resilience, beauty, love, and the spirit of Aloha.
- Occasions: Perfect for adornment at weddings, anniversaries, and formal celebrations.
Pikake (Jasmine)
Princess Kaʻiulani, who loved both peacocks and jasmine flowers, gave jasmine its traditional Hawaiian name.
- Symbolism: Love, romance, and hospitality.
- Occasions: Pikake is frequently used in wedding leis or to show affection.
Tuberose
Tuberose has a strong and sweet fragrance. This flower’s scent is believed to please the gods, so it is often associated with spirituality.
- Symbolism: Love, sensuality, remembrance, and a connection to the spiritual world.
- Occasions: It is often used in leis given during memorials or deeply personal milestones.
Carnations
Carnations were brought to the islands in the mid-1800s and were popularized by singers and musicians. Though they have declined in popularity since the 1980s, a double red carnation lei still holds deep meaning for older generations. This flower’s color also holds different meanings.
- Symbolism:
- Red carnations represent love and admiration.
- White carnations signify pure love and good luck.
- Pink carnations stand for gratitude.
- Occasions: Carnations are versatile and can be used in leis or floral arrangements for various occasions.
ʻIlima
A sibling to the hibiscus, ʻIlima is the official flower of Oahu. It is a beautiful and sacred flower.
- Symbolism: Good luck, royalty, and a tribute to Laka, the goddess of hula.
- Occasions: ʻIlima leis were historically worn by Hawaiian royalty or gifted as a mark of respect and affection.
Where to Wear Hawaiian Flowers
Understanding the cultural significance and symbolism of flowers is important. Part of the spirit of Aloha is welcoming newcomers into our family. The respect we have for each other and our traditions helps build trust and love.
When you visit Hawaii, you may see a variety of ways to wear flowers, and each is unique.
Neck (Lei)
The classic lei worn around the neck is a universal symbol of Aloha. Given as a gesture of love, respect, or friendship, leis are often seen at weddings, graduations, and cultural ceremonies. If you are offered a lei, it is customary that you receive it. Though it is considered rude to refuse a lei, you may politely decline if you are allergic or pregnant. Tradition holds that it is bad luck to give a pregnant woman a closed lei.
Haku Lei (Head Lei)
A haku lei is a woven floral crown worn around the head. It is often worn during celebrations, hula performances, and weddings.
Hair Picks
Floral hair picks can be made with artificial or natural flowers. They are beautiful accessories for both updos and free-flowing hair. Many women use hair picks when attending celebrations and luaus.
Single Flower Behind the Ear
This is a very classic and simple way to wear Hawaiian flowers. However, it’s important to note which ear you place the flower behind:
- Right Ear: The wearer is single and available.
- Left Ear: The wearer is in a relationship or married.
Wrist and Ankle (Kupeʻe)
These traditional Tahitian and old Hawaiian accessories are typically worn during hula performances to call attention to the hands and feet of the dancer. They can be made of greenery or flowers.
Hip (Hei Lei)
Hei leis are often worn around the hips during traditional hula performances. These leis enhance the movement and reflect the significance of the dance.
Discover the Aloha Spirit at Mauka Warriors Luau
No matter when your trip to Hawaii happens, we are excited to welcome you. As you engage with the culture of these beautiful islands, you can enjoy activities, food, and an incredible performance at Mauka Warriors Luau.
Explore the history of Polynesia’s wars and warriors and experience the Aloha spirit on the island of Oahu in a truly unique way. Learn more about Mauka Warriors Luau and make your reservations today!
