Discover 20 stunning Hawaiian flowers with names, pictures, and fun facts. Learn about their beauty and cultural roots—perfect for gardeners and flower lovers!
Aloha, fellow garden enthusiasts! I’m Ashley Scott, and with 10 years of gardening experience under my belt, I’m excited to take you on a colorful journey through the world of Hawaiian flowers. Whether you’re dreaming of a tropical garden, crafting a Hawaiian flowers bouquet, or simply curious about Hawaiian flowers names and pictures, this article has you covered. Today, I’ll share 20 stunning Hawaiian flowers, complete with their names, vivid descriptions, and fun facts that’ll spark your imagination. Let’s dive into the beauty of Hawaii’s floral wonders!
Why Hawaiian Flowers Are So Special
Hawaii’s tropical climate and volcanic soil create the perfect playground for some of the most breathtaking flowers on Earth. These blooms aren’t just pretty—they’re woven into the islands’ culture, from leis to legends. I remember my first trip to Hawaii, standing in awe as the scent of plumeria filled the air and vibrant hibiscus blooms dotted the landscape. It inspired me to bring a touch of that magic to my own garden, and I hope this list does the same for you!
1. Hibiscus – Hawaii’s State Flower
The hibiscus is the poster child of Hawaiian flowers. Its large, colorful blooms come in red, pink, yellow, and orange, but the yellow hibiscus, known as Pua Aloalo, holds a special title as Hawaii’s state flower. I’ve used these in my garden for years—they’re low-maintenance and add instant tropical flair.
- Fun Fact: Each bloom lasts just a day or two, but the plant flowers almost daily. Talk about a fleeting beauty!
- Cultural Note: Hibiscus is a staple in leis and symbolizes hospitality.
Want to grow your own? Check out my hibiscus care guide on USA Garden Hub!
2. Bird of Paradise – A Tropical Showstopper
The Bird of Paradise looks like a bird taking flight with its orange and blue petals. Originally from South Africa, it thrives in Hawaii’s warm climate. I once saw these lining a hotel garden in Maui—pure eye candy!
- Fun Fact: Birds like sunbirds pollinate it by perching on the flower.
- Tip: Perfect for bold Hawaiian flowers drawings or garden focal points.
3. Plumeria – The Scent of Aloha
Plumeria, or frangipani, is a must-have for any Hawaiian flowers necklace or lei. Its soft petals come in white, pink, yellow, and red, and the fragrance? Heavenly. I’ve got a plumeria tree in my backyard, and its evening scent is pure bliss.
- Fun Fact: Plumeria symbolizes new beginnings in Hawaiian culture.
- Source: Learn more at Hawaii.edu.
4. Anthurium – The Flamingo Flower
With its glossy, heart-shaped spathes in red, pink, or white, the anthurium is elegance in bloom. The real flowers are tiny spikes hidden inside. I love how these add a sleek touch to indoor spaces.
- Fun Fact: They bloom year-round in Hawaii’s climate.
- Use: Great for Hawaiian flowers images or arrangements.
5. Orchid – A Lei Favorite
Hawaii’s orchids, like phalaenopsis and dendrobium, are pure magic. Their delicate blooms in every color imaginable make them lei staples. I’ve tried growing orchids indoors—tricky but worth it!
- Fun Fact: The Hawaiian word for orchid is Okika.
- Resource: Check out Missouri Botanical Garden.
6. Bougainvillea – Colorful Climber
Bougainvillea’s vibrant bracts (not petals!) in pink, purple, and orange brighten up fences and walls. The tiny white flowers hide inside. I’ve seen these cascading over cliffs in Hawaii—stunning!
- Fun Fact: Named after French explorer Louis Antoine de Bougainville.
- Idea: Use in Hawaiian flowers clip art for a pop of color.
7. Ohia Lehua – Pele’s Sacred Bloom
The Ohia Lehua’s red, pom-pom-like flowers are tied to the volcano goddess Pele. The tree’s resilience on lava fields blows my mind—I’ve seen it firsthand on the Big Island.
- Fun Fact: Legend says picking it causes rain, separating lovers Ohia and Lehua.
- Learn More: USGS.gov.
8. Naupaka – The Half Flower
Naupaka’s half-bloom look comes from a love story about separated lovers—one flower grows in the mountains, the other by the sea. It’s a romantic touch for leis.
- Fun Fact: Represents enduring love in Hawaiian lore.
- Tip: A unique pick for Hawaiian flowers names lists.
9. Gardenia – Fragrant and Rare
The Hawaiian gardenia, or na’u, is an endangered beauty with creamy white blooms and a scent that stops you in your tracks. I dream of growing one someday!
- Fun Fact: Its fragrance can perfume an entire room.
- Source: National Tropical Botanical Garden.
10. Heliconia – Lobster Claw
Heliconia’s bold, claw-like bracts in red, yellow, and pink scream tropical. They thrive in Hawaii’s rainforests, and I’ve used them to spice up my garden borders.
- Fun Fact: The real flowers hide inside the bracts.
- Use: Stunning in Hawaiian flowers bouquets.
11. Hawaiian Poppy – A Coastal Gem
The rare pua kala poppy has white petals and a yellow center. It’s tough enough to grow in dry coastal areas—nature’s survivor!
- Fun Fact: One of Hawaii’s few native blooms.
- Conservation: Read more at FWS.gov.
12. Pikake – Princess Ka’iulani’s Pick
Pikake, or Hawaiian jasmine, is a tiny white flower with a big scent. It’s perfect for leis and perfumes. I once wore a pikake lei at a luau—unforgettable!
- Fun Fact: Named “peacock” after the princess’s favorite bird.
- Grow It: Tips on USA Garden Hub.
13. Protea – Prehistoric Beauty
Protea’s spiky, bold blooms in pink and red look ancient. From South Africa, they’ve adapted to Hawaii’s volcanic soil. They’re a statement piece in any garden.
- Fun Fact: Named after shape-shifting god Proteus.
- Source: Sugarbushes (Protea): Your Guide to Growing These Exotic Beauties.
14. Ginger – Tropical Spice
Ginger flowers, like the red torch ginger, are exotic and useful. The shampoo ginger’s milky sap doubles as a natural cleanser—I’ve tried it!
- Fun Fact: Shampoo ginger’s sap is a traditional hair rinse.
- Use: Adds flair to Hawaiian flowers drawings.
15. Lokelani Rose – Maui’s Bloom
The Lokelani rose, Maui’s official flower, has soft pink petals and a sweet scent. It’s a Hawaiian twist on the classic rose.
- Fun Fact: Brought by Spanish explorers in the 1800s.
- Tip: Ideal for romantic Hawaiian flowers necklaces.
16. Hawaiian Mint – A Rare Find
The endangered Hawaiian mint (Stenogyne) has small, tubular flowers loved by native birds. It’s a hidden treasure in Hawaii’s forests.
- Fun Fact: Lacks the typical minty smell.
- Learn More: Hawaii.edu.
17. Ilima – Royal Yellow
Ilima’s tiny yellow blooms are light enough to need hundreds for a lei. They’re a symbol of royalty and respect.
- Fun Fact: Sacred to Hawaiian chiefs.
- Use: Perfect for Hawaiian flowers images.
18. Passionflower – Otherworldly Vine
Passionflower’s intricate blooms and lilikoi fruit make it a garden star. I’ve grown it for its looks and snacks!
- Fun Fact: Named for its Christ symbolism.
- Source: Missouri Botanical Garden.
19. Crown Flower – Queen’s Choice
The crown flower, or pua kalaunu, has star-shaped blooms and was Queen Lili’uokalani’s favorite. Its milky sap fascinates me.
- Fun Fact: Used as a natural glue in ancient Hawaii.
- Tip: Regal in Hawaiian flowers bouquets.
20. Hawaiian Gardenia – A Rare Repeat
The rare Hawaiian gardenia reappears here for its endangered status and unmatched fragrance. It’s a reminder of nature’s fragility.
- Fun Fact: Only a few wild plants remain.
- Conservation: NTBG.org.
Growing Your Own Hawaiian Flowers
Want to bring Hawaii home? Many of these, like hibiscus and plumeria, thrive in warm, sunny spots. I’ve had success with well-draining soil and lots of love. For detailed tips, visit my tropical gardening guide!
Conclusion: A Blooming Legacy
These 20 Hawaiian flowers are more than just plants—they’re stories of culture, resilience, and beauty. From the sacred Ohia Lehua to the fragrant pikake, they’ve inspired me to keep gardening and exploring. Whether you’re sketching Hawaiian flowers clip art or planting your own, let these blooms spark your creativity. Mahalo for joining me on this floral adventure!