Flowers of Kauai
Flowers used in Leis
* “Puakenikeni” means “ten-cent flower” in honor of its lei value during the late 1800s & early 1900s. * A Tahitian Gardenia is known as “Tiare” and it is Tahiti`s national flower. *The most popular lei for a wedding is a “Pikake” (Arabian Jasmine) lei for the bride and a maile lei for the groom. * Tuberose is “Kupalo” in Hawaiian. * Pakalana flowers were used for leis in Honolulu prior to World War II. Pakalana is an evergreen, woody vine with heart-shaped leaves that erupts into small, fragrant, yellow flowers from April to September. * Summertime brings us the blooms and sweet fragrance of the white ginger, `awapuhi ke`oke`o, and the yellow ginger, `awapuhi melemele. * Wearing a Plumeria flower – “Pua Melia” over your ear indicates your relationship status (over your left ear means you are taken and over your right ear means you are available!) * Stephanotis or “Pua Male” means “marry flower” in Hawaiian and is a popular flower at weddings.
Torch Ginger
Torch Ginger is also known as Philippine Wax-flower. Torch Ginger is one of the tallest, if not the tallest ginger found here in Hawaii. It grows up to 5 feet (1.5m) tall. The inflorescences have waxy, red to pink, white-edged bracts and are pinecone-shaped with a skirt of larger bracts. The individual flowers emerge from between the colorful bracts and have a dark red labellum (lip petal) with a bright yellow margin. The flowers are followed by green to reddish fruit. The flowers make nice, long-lasting cut flowers for tropical flower arrangements. The unopened flower buds are edible and very flavorful, and they are used in Southeast Asian cooking.
Anthriums
Anthuriums (Anthrium japonicum) is a species of flowering plant native to Kauai. These plants add color, texture, and life to the island`s lush landscapes. Anthuriums are hardy and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, from cold to hot. They are often used in landscaping and in public gardens. Anthuriums are also important for their medicinal properties, as their leaves can be used to treat a variety of ailments. In addition, these plants are important for their ability to attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. On Kauai, these plants help to keep the island`s ecosystems balanced and healthy.
Bird of Paradise
The Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae) is a species of flowering plant native to South Africa, but it has become a popular garden plant in other parts of the world. It is especially popular in Hawaii, where it is known as the Bird of Paradise. The Bird of Paradise has a long history on Kauai, with its first recorded appearance in the 1800s. It was first planted in the gardens of local Hawaiian royalty and eventually spread to other parts of the island. Today, the Bird of Paradise is a symbol of Kauai, often seen in gardens and landscapes throughout the island. It is also a popular choice for wedding bouquets and other decorative purposes. The Bird of Paradise is a tropical plant that requires warm temperatures and plenty of sunlight in order to thrive, making it ideal for the Hawaiian climate. Its colorful blooms make it a favorite among gardeners, and it is a symbol of beauty and grace in Kauai.
Heliconia
Heliconia is a genus of flowering plants that is native to Kauai and other tropical regions. These plants are known for their brightly colored flowers and are often used in landscaping and cut flower arrangements. The most common species of heliconia on Kauai is Heliconia psittacorum, which is also known as parrot`s beak or parrot`s bill. This species is easily recognizable due to its orange and red flowers that resemble a parrot`s beak. Heliconia is generally found in moist, well-drained areas, such as near streams, and can grow up to 10 feet in height. They are also known for their ability to attract hummingbirds and other pollinators. With their vibrant colors and diverse habitats, heliconia is an important part of the Kauai landscape and is certainly a sight to behold.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is a genus of flowering plants that is native to tropical and subtropical regions around the world. In Hawaii, hibiscus is a very popular flower, and there are several species of hibiscus that are native to the islands. Most of these species are not endangered, but some species of hibiscus on Kauai are listed as endangered by the United States Fish and Wildlife Service. These species include Hibiscus clayi, Hibiscus kokio, and Hibiscus waimeae. These species are threatened by habitat loss and degradation due to agricultural and residential development.
Night Booming Cereus
The night-blooming cereus (Epiphyllum oxypetalum) is a unique cactus native to Kauai and Poipu. It is a fast-growing, climbing vine with fragrant white flowers that bloom once a year during the summer months. The flowers open up in the late evening and last until the early morning, giving off a sweet, floral scent. The plant is often referred to as the Queen of the Night due to its stunning blooms. The night-blooming cereus is an endangered species and is protected on the island of Kauai, making it a rare sight for visitors. Although it can be difficult to locate, when found, the night-blooming cereus adds an extra layer of beauty to the island.