Aloha! The beauty of Hawaiian flowers is inextricably linked with the image of Hawaii itself. They are an integral part of the islands’ culture, serving as symbols of love, hospitality, and the vibrancy of life in this Pacific paradise. But what are Hawaiian flowers called? How can you capture their beauty on paper? And can you take flowers from Hawaii home with you?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll answer these questions, and more, as we explore the world of Hawaiian flowers.
A Blossoming Diversity
Hawaii is home to a multitude of unique flowers, many of which are indigenous to the islands. From the fragrant plumeria to the colorful hibiscus, each flower has a story to tell and a role to play in the local ecosystem.
One iconic flower that comes to mind when discussing Hawaiian flowers is the Hibiscus. Known as the “Pua Aloalo” in Hawaiian, it is Hawaii’s state flower. With its large, bright petals, this tropical beauty is an emblem of the islands’ warmth and vitality.
Other Hawaiian flowers include the fragrant Plumeria, often used in lei-making, and the Bird of Paradise, with its vibrant, exotic form that resembles an ornate bird in flight. The rich volcanic soil and tropical climate of Hawaii create an ideal environment for these and many other flowers to thrive.
Drawing Hawaiian Flowers
Interested in drawing these tropical gems? Here are some simple steps on how to draw Hawaiian flowers, specifically, the iconic Hibiscus:
- Sketch a Base: Start by drawing a small circle for the stamen and a larger circle around it for the petals.
- Draw the Petals: Draw five large, outward-facing teardrop shapes from the larger circle to form the petals. Hibiscus petals have a slight crease in the middle, so remember to add a line in the center of each petal.
- Add Details: Add a series of small circles to the stamen for the pollen, and draw a stem from the bottom of the flower.
- Final Touches: Once you’re happy with your sketch, go over the lines with a fine pen or marker. Then, add color using colored pencils or watercolor paints.
For other flowers of Hawaii, there are countless tutorials online that can help you learn how to draw Hawaii flowers in a variety of styles.
Taking Flowers from Hawaii
Now, onto a common question: Can you take flowers from Hawaii? The short answer is yes, but with restrictions. To protect agriculture in both Hawaii and the mainland U.S., the Hawaii Department of Agriculture implements stringent rules.
You can bring flowers, leis, and foliage from Hawaii to the mainland, provided they are inspected and are free of pests. It’s important to note that some items, including certain fruits and plants, are not allowed at all due to the risk of invasive species.
It’s recommended to buy flowers from a certified dealer who can provide the necessary inspection and clearance. That way, you can enjoy the beauty of Hawaii back home, without harming the fragile ecosystems of either Hawaii or your home state.
The Beauty of the Islands
Whether you’re marveling at the rainbow of blooms at a botanical garden or sketching a plumeria from your beachside bungalow, the flowers of Hawaii are an integral part of the island experience. Their diversity, vibrancy, and cultural significance are a testament to the magic of the Hawaiian Islands—a magic that continues to bloom, just like its enchanting flowers.
Scott Sweeney is the creator of Virtual Hawaii 360. Scott is a professional marketer and a lifelong Hawaii enthusiast. Scott splits time between Oahu and Dayton, Ohio. In addition to his marketing endevours, he is also a published Ukulele musician.
