Flowers, or “pua” in Hawaiian, are a big part of Hawaiian culture. You’ll find them woven into leis, swaying in hula dances, and representing the spirit of aloha. They’re more than just pretty decorations; they’re symbols.
While the yellow hibiscus is the official state flower, each of the eight main Hawaiian islands also has its own official flower and color that represents its unique spirit. Let’s explore the flower of Hawaii Island (the Big Island) and what it means to the people who call it home.
The Official Flower of Hawai’i Island: ʻŌhiʻa Lehua
The official flower of Hawai’i Island is the vibrant red ʻōhiʻa lehua, which grows on the native ʻōhiʻa tree. This blossom is deeply connected to Pele, the volcano goddess, and embodies strength, resilience, and fresh starts.
A well-known legend tells of a handsome man named ʻŌhiʻa and his lover, Lehua. Pele desired ʻŌhiʻa, but he refused her advances because of his love for Lehua. Enraged, Pele turned ʻŌhiʻa into a gnarled tree. Lehua was heartbroken, so the gods took pity on her and transformed her into the flower of the tree, so the two lovers could be together forever.
The ʻōhiʻa lehua is essential to lei making and other cultural traditions, symbolizing the enduring power of love and the spirit of the islands.
A Floral Tapestry: The Flowers of the Eight Main Hawaiian Islands
Each of the eight major Hawaiian islands is represented by a unique flower or plant. Here’s a look at each island’s official floral emblem:
- Hawai’i Island – ʻōhiʻa lehua: The ʻōhiʻa lehua is a vibrant red flower associated with Pele, the Hawaiian goddess of fire, lightning, wind, and volcanoes. In Hawaiian mythology, the flower represents love and new beginnings.
- Maui – Lokelani rose: The Lokelani rose is a delicate pink flower that, while not native to Hawai’i, has become a beloved symbol of the “Valley Isle.”
- Lānaʻi – kaunaʻoa: The kaunaʻoa is a vine with delicate orange blossoms. Historically, Hawaiians used the vine for medicinal purposes.
- Kahoʻolawe – hinahina kū kahakai: The hinahina kū kahakai is a silvery-gray plant perfectly adapted to the dry, harsh environment of Kahoʻolawe.
- Molokaʻi – pua kukui nut: The pua kukui nut is associated with the color green and comes from the kukui tree, which held immense importance in Hawaiian culture. The nuts were used for oil, the bark for dye, and the whole tree was a symbol of enlightenment.
- Oʻahu – ʻilima: The ʻilima flower is a delicate yellow blossom. Making an ʻilima lei is a labor-intensive process, requiring hundreds, sometimes even a thousand, flowers to create a single strand.
- Kauaʻi – mokihana berry: The mokihana berry is a fragrant purple berry used in lei making. It’s unique fragrance makes it a treasured symbol of Kaua’i.
- Niʻihau – pūpū shell: Uniquely, Niʻihau is represented by shells instead of a flower. The tiny white shells are meticulously crafted into exquisite leis, which can sell for hundreds or even thousands of dollars, reflecting the artistry and rarity of these beautiful creations.
Flowers and the Chakras: A Symbolic Connection
Some people believe that the human body has seven major energy centers called chakras. Each chakra is associated with a color. For example, the root chakra at the base of the spine is often linked to the color red. The sacral chakra, just below the navel, is associated with orange, and so on.
Interestingly, the colors of many Hawaiian flowers correspond to these seven chakras, providing a symbolic representation of the body’s energy centers. It’s easy to imagine this connection when you consider the vibrant and diverse flora of the islands.
On Hawai’i Island, the red lehua flower is a perfect example. Its deep red hue is linked to the root chakra, representing grounding, stability, and a connection to the earth. This symbolic link enhances the flower’s already significant cultural and spiritual importance.
Floral Parades and Cultural Celebrations
Flowers aren’t just pretty decorations in Hawaii; they’re deeply woven into the culture. Floral parades, in particular, are a vibrant expression of Hawaiian heritage and community spirit.
Perhaps the most well-known is the King Kamehameha I Floral Parade, held annually on June 10th to celebrate the birthday of the king who united the Hawaiian Islands. This spectacular event features elaborate floats adorned with thousands of fresh flowers, showcasing the beauty and abundance of the islands.
A highlight of these parades is the presence of Pa’u riders. These skilled equestrians, dressed in traditional Hawaiian attire, represent each of the islands. Their elegant riding and colorful Pa’u skirts (long, flowing skirts made of fabric) add a touch of regal grace to the festivities.
Beyond the Kamehameha parade, flowers play a central role in many other Hawaiian celebrations. Lei Day, celebrated every May 1st, is a perfect example. It’s a day dedicated to the spirit of aloha and the sharing of lei, symbolizing love, friendship, and respect.
In Closing
In Hawai’i, flowers are much more than mere decorations. They’re living symbols of aloha, history, and spirituality, deeply connected to the land and its people.
As we’ve explored, each Hawaiian island boasts its own unique floral emblem, intricately woven into the fabric of local traditions and beliefs. From the delicate lokelani of Maui to the vibrant ‘ōhi’a lehua of Hawai’i Island, these floral symbols tell stories of place and belonging.
So, the next time you see a Hawaiian flower, take a moment to appreciate its beauty and remember the rich floral heritage of this special place.