24 Flowers That Grow in Hawaii: A Blooming Guide to Vibrant Hawaiian Species - Foliage Friend - Learn About Different Types of Plants (2024)

Hawaii, known for its breathtaking scenery and diverse flora, is home to a multitude of unique and captivating flowers. This article will delve into 24 remarkable Hawaiian flower species, which capture the essence and beauty of the islands.

These flower species will be categorized under various plant groups, represented by h2 titles, making it easy for you to explore and learn more about these fascinating Hawaiian treasures. Let’s take a look at these exotic and alluring flowers that contribute to the vibrant and lush Hawaiian landscape.

Native Hawaiian Flowers

There are various unique and beautiful flowers native to Hawaii that have captivated the hearts of locals and travelers alike. Many of these species have played significant roles in Hawaiian culture and history. This section will discuss six popular native Hawaiian flowers that you should know about.

Hibiscus

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Hibiscus, also known as the Aloha State’s state flower, is a vibrant and stunning tropical plant. It comes in various colors, including red, pink, yellow, and white. Hibiscus flowers have been used extensively in Hawaiian traditions, such as making flower garlands and celebrating special occasions.

Yellow Ohia Lehua

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The Yellow Ohia Lehua, or Metrosideros polymorpha, is a native Hawaiian tree with bright yellow flowers. This distinctively beautiful plant is considered sacred in Hawaiian culture and is associated with the volcano goddess, Pele. The Yellow Ohia Lehua is not only a visual delight but is also essential for the local ecosystem, as it is an early colonizer of new lava fields.

Metrosideros Rugosa

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Metrosideros Rugosa, commonly known as the ‘Ohi’a Tree, is a sturdy tree species with small, rounded, and rust-colored leaves. The flowers of this tree have an iconic red tufted appearance that makes them stand out amidst the green foliage. Metrosideros Rugosa is also one of the primary components of Hawaii’s native forests, providing habitat for many native birds and insects.

Silversword

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The Silversword, or Ahinahina, is a remarkable plant unique to the Hawaiian Islands. Sporting long, pointy, silver leaves and a tall flowering stalk, the Silversword grows at high altitudes, often in volcanic habitats. This striking and rare plant can live up to 50 years but blooms only once in its lifetime before dying.

Hawaiian Gardenia

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The Hawaiian Gardenia, known scientifically as Gardenia brighamii, is an exquisite flower that belongs to the gardenia family. Its fragrant, creamy white blossoms stand out against the dark, glossy green leaves of the plant. Popular in traditional Hawaiian lei-making, the Hawaiian Gardenia is a symbol of grace and beauty in island culture.

Hawaiian Blue Violet

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The Hawaiian Blue Violet, or Viola chamissoniana, is a native perennial plant that boasts delicate blue-purple flowers. The charming blooms of this violet species can be found in the island’s wet forests and mountain meadows. This flower not only adds color to the Hawaiian landscape but is also an essential food source for native insects and birds.

Orchids

Hawaii is home to a diverse array of orchids that enchant both locals and visitors with their beauty. In this section, we will explore six popular types of orchids found in the Hawaiian Islands: Phalaenopsis, Cattleya, Dendrobium, Miltonia, Masdevallia, and Laeliocattleya.

Phalaenopsis

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Commonly known as Moth Orchids, Phalaenopsis orchids are one of the most popular and widely recognized orchids in the world. These stunning flowers have elegant, large petals that come in an assortment of colors, making them a favorite among gardeners and florists alike. Due to their adaptive nature, they can thrive in the Hawaiian climate.

Cattleya

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Renowned for their stunning petals and exquisite fragrance, Cattleya orchids are a go-to choice for floral arrangements and leis in Hawaii. Native to Central and South America, these orchids were introduced to the Hawaiian Islands many years ago and have since found a perfect home in the region’s lush, tropical environment.

Dendrobium

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Dendrobium orchids, with their delicate and intricate petal patterns, are native to the tropical regions of Asia, the Pacific Islands, and Australia. These orchids adapt well to the Hawaiian climate and are commonly found in hanging pots or mounted on trees in gardens across the islands. Their flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, yellow, and purple.

Miltonia

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Miltonia, or Pansy Orchids, are known for their striking resemblance to the colorful pansy flowers. They originate from South and Central America and can be seen in various Hawaiian gardens. These orchids require delicate care as they prefer cooler temperatures compared to their other tropical orchid counterparts.

Masdevallia

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Masdevallia orchids, native to the Andean cloud forests in South America, exhibit intriguing shapes and brilliant colors. These orchids enjoy the cooler, higher elevation areas of Hawaii, making them a unique addition to Hawaiian gardens. Their distinctive flowers boast long, tubular structures and vibrant hues, adding a whimsical touch to any space.

Laeliocattleya

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A delightful combination of Laelia and Cattleya orchids, Laeliocattleya hybrids showcase a stunning fusion of the two parent species’ features. These orchids display large, vibrant blooms and are cherished for their captivating fragrance. They prosper in Hawaii’s tropical climate, gracing gardens with their exotic beauty.

With such a vast and colorful array of orchids found throughout the Hawaiian Islands, it is no wonder that they hold a special place in the hearts of locals and visitors alike. These captivating flowers continue to enchant us with their beauty, further enriching the magnificent paradise that is Hawaii.

Tropical Flowers

Hawaii is renowned for its wide variety of beautiful, tropical flowers. In this section, we will explore some of the most iconic tropical flowers found in Hawaii, including Plumeria, Heliconia, Bird of Paradise, Anthurium, Protea, and Red Ginger.

Plumeria

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Plumeria, also known as frangipani, is a fragrant and popular flower in Hawaii. They bloom in various colors, such as white, yellow, and pink, and are often used to create traditional Hawaiian lei necklaces. Plumeria plants require full sunlight, proper drainage, and occasional fertilization to thrive.

Heliconia

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Heliconia, commonly known as Lobster Claws, is one of the most eye-catching flowers in Hawaii. Resembling their namesake, Lobster Claws boast vibrant red or orange panicles with yellow flowers. These plants need plenty of water, sunlight, and humus-rich soil to flourish.

Bird of Paradise

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Bird of Paradise is another popular tropical flower found in Hawaii. Known for its striking resemblance to a bird in flight, this exotic plant displays bright orange and blue petals. Bird of Paradise flowers need plenty of sunlight, well-drained soil, and consistent moisture to grow successfully.

Anthurium

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Anthuriums are easily recognized by their heart-shaped, glossy leaves and colorful spathes. They come in various colors, including red, pink, and white. Anthuriums prefer indirect sunlight, well-draining soil, and high humidity for optimal growth.

Protea

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Native to South Africa, Protea plants are well-established in Hawaii. Proteas have distinct, large, and colorful blooms, making them a favorite among locals and tourists alike. They require plenty of sunlight, well-draining soil, and regular pruning to maintain their unique appearance.

Red Ginger

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Red Ginger, also known as Alpinia purpurata, features vibrant red or pink torch-like bracts with small white flowers. They thrive in partial shade, moist soil, and high humidity. To keep these beauties healthy, it’s essential to provide them with adequate water and nutrients, especially when grown indoors.

These are just a few examples of the stunning tropical flowers that can be found in Hawaii. Each species contributes to the rich, colorful, and diverse floral landscape of the islands.

Flowering Trees

One of the most striking aspects of Hawaii’s flora is the abundance of flowering trees. Bursting with vivid colors and captivating scents, these trees add a unique touch to the Hawaiian landscape. In this section, we will explore six delightful specimens:

Koa (Acacia koa)

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The Koa tree is native to Hawaii and can grow up to 80 feet in height. Known for its beautiful wood, this tree produces small yellow flowers that resemble little tufts of pompoms. Koa trees are a significant part of Hawaiian culture, used for making traditional items like canoes and musical instruments.

Blue Jacaranda (Jacaranda mimosifolia)

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The Blue Jacaranda is an enchanting tree with feathery, fern-like leaves and clusters of trumpet-shaped, violet-blue flowers. Originating from South America, they have adapted well to the Hawaiian climate and are commonly seen in parks and along streets.

Royal Poinciana (Delonix regia)

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Native to Madagascar, the Royal Poinciana boasts fiery red or orange flowers with delicate petals resembling an exotic bird. This striking tree thrives in the tropical climate of Hawaii, providing a stunning display during its peak flowering season from May to July.

African Tulip Tree (Spathodea campanulata)

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Also known as the ‘Fountain Tree,’ the African Tulip Tree showcases large, cup-shaped flowers that come in shades of red, orange, and yellow. Native to Africa, it has found a home in Hawaii, often used as an ornamental tree in landscapes due to its striking appearance.

Orchid Tree (Bauhinia spp.)

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The Orchid Tree is a delightful addition to the Hawaiian landscape, displaying fragrant, orchid-like flowers in a range of colors like pink, white, or purplish-blue. These trees are popular for their showy blooms, which typically appear between winter and spring.

Fiddlewood (Citharexylum spp.)

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Fiddlewoods are a group of tropical flowering trees native to the Americas, known for small fragrant flowers that transform from white to yellow with age. These trees are cherished in Hawaii for their lush foliage, fragrant flowers, and their contribution to the island’s rich biodiversity.

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Daniel Elrod

My name is Daniel Elrod, and I have been houseplant love ever since I was 17. I love how much joy they bring to any room in the home. I’ve always been amazed at how a few pots of flowing leaves can turn a drab and sterile office into an inviting place where people love to work at.

24 Flowers That Grow in Hawaii: A Blooming Guide to Vibrant Hawaiian Species - Foliage Friend - Learn About Different Types of Plants (2024)

FAQs

What plants did the Hawaiians bring to Hawaii? ›

10.2: Polynesian introduced plants
Common Name(s)Species
Kō/SugarcaneSaccharum officinarum
'Ohe/BambooSchizostachyum glaucifolium
'Ōhi'a 'ai/Mountain appleSyzygium malaccense
PiaTacca leontopetaloides
23 more rows
Jan 31, 2024

What are 3 plants in Hawaii? ›

Common Native Plants
ʻĀkalaʻOheloʻŌhiʻa lehua
HāpuʻuHauʻŌhiʻa ha
KoaKokiʻo ʻulaʻulaLoulu
MaileMāmakiNaio
Naupaka kahakaiOlonāPāpala kēpau
2 more rows

What type of flowers does Hawaii have? ›

Some must-see Hawaiian tropical flowers include Plumeria, Hawaiian Hibiscus, Bird of Paradise, Pikake, Ohia Lehua, Naupaka, Heliconia, Hinahina, Koʻoloaʻula (Bird of Paradise), Anthurium, Hawaiian Gardenia (Nau or Nanu), Hawaiian Lily (Uki Uki), Hawaiian Poppy (Pua Kala), Hawaiian Red Cranesbill and Silver Geranium ( ...

What are the best native Hawaiian plants to grow? ›

Many native plants such as Myoporum, Dodonaea, Vitex, Sida, Scaevola, and Sapindus have a broad range of elevation adaptation. Thus they can be grown in coastal, inland, and upland Hawaiian gardens. Once established in the cooler, wetter areas, these plants have a minimal water requirement.

What plant is Hawaii known for? ›

The Hawaii's State Flower is Yellow Hibiscus(Hibiscus brackenridgei) also known as pus mao hau hele. The entire territory of Hawai is named after yellow Hibiscus as official flower in the year 1923.

What plant is only found in Hawaii? ›

ʻAhakea. (Bobea sandwicensis) [Endemic] - Bobea sandwicensis is a rare dry forest endemic that's found only on Oʻahu, Lānaʻi, Molokai, and Maui. On a different note, Bobea is a Hawaiʻi-endemic genus, meaning there are no Bobea species found elsewhere, outside of the four found in Hawaiʻi.

What is the most famous plant in Hawaii? ›

Hibiscus (Hibiscus spp.): The hibiscus is the state flower of Hawai'i and is known for its large, colorful blossoms. Plumeria (Plumeria spp.): These fragrant, vibrant flowers are commonly used in leis and are well-suited to Hawai'i's climate.

What is the Hawaiian plant that moves when you touch it? ›

The well-known sensitive plant, or humble plant (Mimosa pudica), is commonly grown in greenhouses as a novelty for its rapid leaf movements in response to touch.

What is the main Hawaiian flower? ›

Today, lei is synonymous with Hawaiʻi as a symbol of aloha. However, what is less known are the pua that represent each island. While the maʻo hau hele, the yellow hibiscus, is the state flower, each of the eight main Hawaiian Islands has its own official flower and color, too.

What is the best smelling flower in Hawaii? ›

Hawaiian Name: Pikake

Jasmine is considered one of the most pleasant smelling and most beautiful flowers around the globe. It's native to all the tropical regions of the world. Many countries also use this flower to make cosmetics and perfumes because of its exceptional fragrance.

What is the iconic Hawaiian flower? ›

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 is the easiest flower to grow in Hawaii? ›

Bromeliads. In some respects, bromeliads are some of the easiest Hawaiian flowers to care for, and they're also some of the most beautiful. You can choose from several different cultivars, and depending on which you select, you may need to adjust the care instructions slightly.

What is the fastest growing plant in Hawaii? ›

Albizia grows rapidly in the first five years, making branches brittle. In good condition, Albizia can grow roughly 15 feet per year, up to 150 feet. Because of the fast growth, branches are large and brittle, causing them to drop at random.

What is the native Hawaiian vine? ›

Hawaiian vetch is a vine that grows on the eastern slopes of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on the Island of Hawai'i. Its extensive branching system typically climbs into the subcanopy of the forest and can reach lengths of up to 60 feet.

What did Hawaiians bring with them to Hawaii? ›

The settlers also brought the pig, dog, chicken, and rat along with them. The transport of plants and domesticated animals on voyaging canoes suggests that the early settlers planned to colonize Hawai'i, after having discovered its location.

What plants did the Polynesians bring to Hawaii? ›

  • TARO KALO SATOIMO.
  • 'APE.
  • TI PLANT, CABBAGE PALM KI.
  • 'AWA KAVA.
  • CANDLENUT TREE KUKUI.
  • COCONUT PALM NIU.
  • KAMANI ALEXANDRIAN LAUREL.
  • SWEET POTATO VINE 'UALA.
Sep 15, 2023

What did the first Hawaiians bring to Hawaii? ›

Hawaiian Society Through the Ages

The islands were perfect for colonization – no predators, mosquitos or disease. They brought with them what was needed to survive – banana, coconut, sweet potato, taro, breadfruit, pigs, chickens and dogs.

What did the Polynesians bring with them to Hawaii? ›

Floating zoos, Polynesian voyaging canoes carried pigs, chickens and dogs which were intended as breeding stock for a new settlement, though they could also be eaten if stores dipped perilously low. Rats were sometimes uninvited passengers and may have occasionally provided an emergency meal.

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