11 Tropical Flowers That Will Remind You of Hawaii (2024)

If you’re looking for a reminder of the tropics, why not bring a little bit of Hawaii into your home?

There are plenty of beautiful tropical flowers that will remind you of the warm, sunny days spent on the islands.

There’s something about tropical flowers that just screams “vacation.” Maybe it’s their vibrant colors or their exotic shapes.

Whatever the reason, these unforgettable blooms are the perfect way to capture that little bit of paradise!

Flowers That Will Remind You of Hawaii

Hawaiian Hibiscus

The Hibiscus is one of the most popular tropical flowers, and it’s so easy to see why. These striking blooms come in various colors, from vibrant yellows and oranges to deep reds and purples.

There are seven different species of Hibiscus that are native to Hawaii, so you’ll have no trouble finding one that suits your style. No matter which one you pick, it is sure to remind you of sunny days in Hawaii.

Hibiscus flowers can be found all over the islands – from roadside lei stands, public gardens, hiking trails, and alongside many beaches.

Note:Hisbiscus flowers need warm weather and lots of sunlight to thrive, so make sure you have a spot in your home that meets these requirements before adding one of these beauties to your collection.

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Below are the seven types of Hawaiian hibiscuses

1. Hibiscus Brackenridgei:The Hibiscus brackenridgei is bright yellow and is usually between 2 and 16 feet tall. However, there have been accounts of these growing much taller.

They bloom from spring to early summer and are considered anendangered species.

2. Hibiscus Clayi:This flower is bright red. It is in bloom from spring to the beginning of fall.

3. Hibiscus Furcellatus:Light pink/purple, this Hibiscus is in bloom year-round.

4. Hibiscus Arnottianus:This flower is white and is in bloom from April to June.

5. Hibiscus Waimeae:This Hibiscus is white but fades into pink in the afternoon. They are in bloom most of the year.

6. Hibiscus Kokio: This flower is red to orangish in color and is in bloom most of the year. These are the world’s only scented Hibiscus!

7. Hibiscus Tiliacius:This one is yellow in color.

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Plumeria

If there’s one flower that reminds people of Hawaii, it’s the plumeria.

These fragrant flowers are often used in leis and can be found all over the islands. Plumeria leis are often given as gifts for special occasions such as weddings, birthdays, and graduations.

Plumeria flowers come in a wide range of colors, from white and yellow to pink, orange, purple, lilac, and red. These blooms are also quite large, with some varieties measuring up to six inches in diameter.

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While plumeria plants are native to Central America, Mexico, and Venezuela, they’re now found all over the world.

You’ll find them growing wild along coastlines and in public parks in Hawaii.

Note:Plumeria is very easy to grow, but it requires a hot, sunny climate to thrive. For those who live in a cooler climate, you can bring the flowerpot indoors in the wintertime.

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Orchids

No tropical flower collection would be complete without at least a few orchids. These exotic blooms come in a wide range of colors, from white and pink to purple, blue, and green.

And while they’re often associated with luxury, they’re actually relatively easy to care for.

Orchids are native to tropical climates all over the world, including Hawaii.

You’ll find these flowers growing wild in the rainforests and along hiking trails.

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Note:Orchids need a warm, humid environment to thrive, so make sure you have a spot in your home that meets these requirements before adding one of these beauties to your collection.

With over 25,000 different species, orchids come in all shapes and sizes. So whether you’re looking for a small plant to add to your windowsill or a large statement piece for your living room, you’re sure to find an orchid that suits your style.

Jasmine

Jasmine is a flowering shrub that produces primarily small, white flowers.

There are other varieties that produce pink, yellow, or pink/white flowers.

Jasmine is native to tropical and subtropical regions all over the world, including Hawaii.

Note:While Jasmine is easy to grow, it does require a lot of sunlight. Make sure you have a spot in your home that gets plenty of sun.

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Bird of Paradise

The bird of paradise is a flowering plant that produces blue, orange, and white flowers. This plant is native to South Africa but can be found all over the world, including Hawaii.

The bird of paradise is popular for tropical flower arrangements and bouquets. It symbolizes paradise on earth, freedom, and joy.

Note:The bird of paradise thrives in hot climates and needs a lot of sunlight to bloom. If you live in a cooler climate, you can bring the flowerpot indoors during the winter months.

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Maui Rose

The Maui rose is a type of Hibiscus that produces pink flowers. This is the official flower of the island of Maui. This plant is native to Asia minor but can be found all over the world, including Hawaii.

Note:Maui roses need a lot of sunlight and warmth to thrive, so make sure you have a spot in your home that meets these requirements before adding one of these gems to your collection.

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Ohia Lehua

The ohia lehua is a type of Hibiscus that produces red flowers. This plant is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands and is the official flower of the Big Island of Hawaii.

The flower can come in various colors, including red, yellow, and white.

The ohia tree can grow easily on volcanic rocks and is considered sacred to Pele, the Volcano goddess in Hawaiian tradition.

The ohia lehua needs a lot of sunlight and warmth to thrive, so make sure you have a spot in your home that meets these requirements beforehand.

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Naupaka

The naupaka is a type of Hibiscus that produces white flowers. This plant is endemic to the Hawaiian Islands. It can be found all over the islands, in the mountains, and on beaches.

Naupaka flowers have a very unique and unusual appearance. They are mainly known for their unique shape as it seems part of the flower is missing.

There are many legends associated with this flower, but one common story is that the flower represents a couple (Naukaka and Kaui) that was torn apart.

Princess Naupaka was in love with a commoner named Kaui, but she was forbidden from marrying him.

The couple went to a temple in the mountains to speak to a shaman to understand the decision, but they could not get any answers. The couple took this as a sign that the Gods were forbidding them from being together.

Saddened by their revelation, princess Naupaka removed the flower that she wore in her hair, gave half to Kaui, and tore the other half apart.

The couple then went their separate ways, and the naupaka plants noticed how sad the couple was. The next day, the naupaka plants bloomed with only half of their flowers visible.

If you love Hawaiian legends, this flower is definitely a good one to add to your garden to remind you of Hawaii!

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Pikake

The pikake is a type of Jasmine that produces white flowers. This plant is native to tropical Asia but can be found all over the world, including Hawaii. The pikake is the official flower of the city of Honolulu.

Pikake flowers are small and delicate, with a sweet fragrance that is similar to that of the plumeria. Often, this flower is used in white leis or Hawaiian wedding bouquets.

Look no further than the pikake if you need a little reminder of Hawaii. This beautiful flower will bring a smile to your face and mentally transport you to the islands.

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Ginger

Ginger is a flowering plant that produces pink, white, or red flowers. This plant is native to tropical Asia but can be found all over the world, including Hawaii.

It grows well in sunlight but can still flourish in minimal shade.

Ginger is a popular choice for tropical flower arrangements and bouquets.

If you are looking for a plant that will add some spice to your life, look no further than ginger.

This versatile plant can be used in many different ways and is sure to brighten up any space.

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Ornamental Heliconia

The Heliconia is a flowering plant that produces red, yellow, green or orange flowers. This plant is native to tropical America but can be found all over the world, including Hawaii.

The Heliconia is also known as the “lobster claw” or “false bird of paradise” in Hawaii.

The plant gets its name from the Greek god Helicon, who was said to live on Mount Olympus, where there were plenty of these flowers.

Heliconias are a popular choice for tropical flower arrangements and bouquets.

If you are looking for a plant that is sure to make a statement, look no further than the Heliconia. With its vibrant colors and unique shape, this flower is sure to turn heads.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most famous flower in Hawaii?

The most famous flower in Hawaii is the plumeria.

What is the state flower of Hawaii?

The yellow Hibiscus is known as the state flower of Hawaii.

What is the most beautiful Hawaiian flower?

This is a matter of opinion, but our personal favorite is the Hawaiian Hibiscus. This flower comes in various colors and is sure to add beauty to any space.

What is the rarest Hawaiian flower?

The rarest Hawaiian flower is Cyanea heluensis. This plant is only found in Hawaii and is currently listed as endangered.

What is the Hawaii State Bird?

The Hawaii state bird is the nene (pronounced nay-nay). The nene is a type of goose that is native to Hawaii.

What are the Hawaiian flower necklaces called?

A Hawaiian flower necklace is called a lei. Leis are often made with Plumeria, Hibiscus, orchids, and other tropical flowers.

The Verdict: Top Flowers That Will Remind You of Hawaii

There are many beautiful flowers in Hawaii, but few remind people of the islands more than others.

The Plumeria, Hibiscus, and bird of paradise are just a few of the most famous Hawaiian flowers.

If you’re looking for a little bit of paradise, look no further than Hawaii’s tropical flowers.

With their bright colors and sweet smells, these blooms are sure to transport you to a sunny oasis.

Mahalo for reading our post! Until next time, Aloha!

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11 Tropical Flowers That Will Remind You of Hawaii (2024)

FAQs

What is the tropical flower of Hawaii? ›

Hibiscus – The official state flower of Hawaii, Hibiscus can be seen growing just about everywhere— from on the side of the road to tucked away in most backyards.

What flower represents Hawaii? ›

The yellow hibiscus is Hawaii's official state flower, also known as hibiscus brackenridgei.

What flower has a connection to Hawaii? ›

In the tropical paradise of Hawaiʻi, there's a flower that captures the essence of the islands like no other – the plumeria. The plumeria is more than just a pretty bloom with its vibrant colors and intoxicating fragrance. It holds a special place in the hearts of Hawaiians, symbolizing love, beauty, and grace.

What is the beach flower in Hawaii? ›

Naupaka Kahakai (Beach Naupaka) Landscapers in Hawaiʻi love using naupaka to embellish coastal areas, because it's a beautiful shrub that thrives in salty, dry environments. You will almost certainly see it planted near hotels and boardwalks by the beach.

What is the 5 petal flower in Hawaii? ›

Frangipani or Plumeria (Plumeria spp.)

This flower is a classic favorite for Hawaiian Leis. It has five petals and comes in a wide variety of colors, like white, red, yellow, orange, and pink. These flowers are most fragrant at night to attract its pollinator, a nocturnal hawk moth.

What flower represents Maui? ›

If you've heard about the lei flower or plant representing each Hawaiian island, you may have noticed that most are native. Maui's flower, the Lokelani Rose, is the only post-European contact plant.

What is the most famous Hawaiian flower? ›

Plumeria

Hawaii's most famous flower, the plumeria is known for its intoxicating scent and use in lei making. Its blooms come in a range of colors, from lily white to yellow, pale pink and deep red. Visitors and locals arriving to the islands are often welcomed with a plumeria flower lei at the airport.

What is the Hawaiian flower of remembrance? ›

The most common lei you will see Hawaiians wearing at a funeral are maile lei, ti-leaf lei, and orchid lei.

What plant represents Hawaii? ›

Hawaiians adopted the hibiscus – in all colors — as their official Territorial flower in the early 1920s however it wasn't until 1988 that the yellow hibiscus, specifically the Hibiscus brackenridgei was selected as Hawaii's state flower.

What is the flower smell of Hawaii? ›

Hawaii's most famous flower, the plumeria is known for its intoxicating scent and use in lei making. Its blooms come in a range of colors, from lily white to yellow, pale pink and deep red. Visitors and locals arriving to the islands are often welcomed with a plumeria flower lei at the airport.

What is the most famous flower of Hawaii? ›

Hibiscus

Known for their large, showy blooms, there are several species of Hibiscus that are native to Hawaii. The yellow native Hibiscus, (Hibiscus brackenridgei) or 'ma'o hau hele' in the Hawaiian language, is the Hawaii State flower.

What is the tropical flower called? ›

Among the most popular tropical flowers are Hibiscus, known for its large, colorful blooms; Orchids, offering unparalleled elegance and diversity; Heliconia, with its striking, vibrant inflorescences; Plumeria, beloved for its fragrant and picturesque flowers; and Strelitzia, famous as the Bird of Paradise for its ...

What is Hawaii state flower and tree? ›

Photographs – State Symbols
State CapitolNene – State Bird
Yellow Hibiscus – State FlowerYellow Hibiscus – State Flower
Kukui – State TreeKukui – State Tree
State Seal

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