Hawaii flowers are some of the most vibrant and unique blooms in the world, adding color, fragrance, and cultural significance to the islands. From rare native species that grow only in Hawaii to tropical favorites used in lei-making and landscaping, these flowers thrive in the islands’ warm climate and rich volcanic soil. Many of them hold a special place in Hawaiian traditions, symbolizing love, hospitality, and the deep connection between people and nature. Whether you’re planning a garden, creating leis, or simply admiring their beauty, Hawaii’s flowers offer endless inspiration.
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1. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
Among the most iconic Hawaii flowers, the Bird of Paradise instantly stands out with its brilliant orange and blue petals that resemble a tropical bird in flight. This striking flower grows on sturdy stems, typically reaching 3 to 4 feet tall, making it an eye-catching choice for gardens or decorative landscaping.
In Hawaii, Bird of Paradise blooms thrive in sunny spots with well-draining soil and regular watering. They are commonly used as ornamental plants in both private gardens and resort landscapes because of their exotic appearance and long-lasting blooms. While not native to the islands, they have become a beloved feature in tropical settings and a favorite for cut-flower arrangements.
2. Heliconias
Heliconias are vibrant tropical blooms often admired for their unusual shapes and brilliant colors. Sometimes called parrot flowers or hanging lobster claws, these Hawaii flowers are actually made up of colorful bracts that protect the tiny true flowers inside.
In Hawaiian gardens, heliconias can grow anywhere from 3 to 15 feet tall, depending on the variety. Their dramatic red, orange, and yellow tones make them a popular choice for tropical landscaping and exotic floral arrangements. They also attract hummingbirds and pollinators, adding life and movement to the garden.
While heliconias are not native to Hawaii, they flourish in the islands’ warm, humid climate, bringing a bold, tropical flair to any outdoor space.
3. Flowering Maple | Ko’oloa ‘ula (Abutilon menziesii)
The Ko’oloa ‘ula, also known as the flowering maple, is one of the rare and beautiful Hawaii flowers that holds deep cultural and ecological value. This endangered native shrub produces delicate, bell-shaped blooms in shades of maroon to red, adding a subtle elegance to Hawaiian landscapes.
Flowering maples typically thrive in dry, sunny areas and are drought-tolerant, making them a resilient choice for native gardens and conservation projects. In Hawaiian tradition, plants like Ko’oloa ‘ula symbolize the islands’ unique biodiversity and the importance of protecting species that exist nowhere else in the world.
4. Frangipani (Plumeria rubra)
Frangipani, or Plumeria rubra, is one of the most beloved Hawaii flowers, instantly recognized by its soft, velvety petals and sweet fragrance. These blossoms come in shades of white, pink, yellow, and deep red, often with a gentle gradient that adds to their tropical charm.
Though not native to Hawaii, frangipani is widely used in lei-making and is closely tied to Hawaiian culture. The flower symbolizes love, new beginnings, and positive energy. Frangipani trees are easy to grow in warm climates, thriving in full sun and well-draining soil, and their blooms can appear multiple times throughout the year.
5. Māmane (Sophora chrysophylla)
The Māmane is a striking native tree known for its clusters of bright yellow blooms, making it a standout among Hawaii flowers. Found primarily at higher elevations on the Big Island and Maui, this hardy tree is an essential part of Hawaii’s natural ecosystem.
Māmane trees play a vital role in supporting native wildlife, including the endangered palila bird, which relies on its seeds and flowers for food. Beyond its ecological importance, the māmane is admired for its golden blossoms that brighten dry forests and add vibrant color to native landscapes. Its drought tolerance and longevity make it a prized species for conservation and native Hawaiian gardens.
6. Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is a vibrant climbing plant that adds a burst of color to Hawaiian landscapes. Though not native, it has become one of the most eye-catching Hawaii flowers thanks to its brilliant pink, purple, orange, and red bracts that surround tiny white blooms.
This drought-tolerant plant thrives in sunny, dry conditions, making it perfect for walls, fences, and trellises in gardens across the islands. Bougainvillea blooms nearly year-round in Hawaii’s warm climate, providing continuous color with minimal maintenance. It’s also a popular choice for lei-making and decorative hedges, adding a tropical flair to residential and resort settings alike.
7. Flamingo Lily (Anthurium andraeanum)
The Flamingo Lily, also known simply as anthurium, is a classic tropical plant that adds elegance and color to gardens and floral arrangements. Its glossy, heart-shaped spathes—most commonly red, though pink, white, and even green varieties exist—make it a favorite among Hawaii flowers.
Anthuriums thrive in humid, shaded areas, preferring well-draining soil and consistent moisture. In Hawaiian landscaping, they are often grown in clusters for a bold, tropical display or used as long-lasting cut flowers. Their striking form and extended blooming period make them a staple in resort gardens and a symbol of tropical beauty throughout the islands.
8. Dwarf Poinciana (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)
The Dwarf Poinciana is a vibrant shrub that lights up tropical gardens with clusters of fiery red, orange, and yellow blooms. Also called the Pride of Barbados, this eye-catching plant has become a popular addition to Hawaiian landscapes, adding a burst of warm color to sunny areas.
As one of the more resilient Hawaii flowers, the dwarf poinciana thrives in hot, dry conditions and requires minimal care once established. Its fern-like leaves and showy blossoms make it ideal for hedges, ornamental borders, or accent plantings. In addition to its beauty, the flowers are sometimes used for lei-making, adding a tropical touch to traditional garlands.
9. Yellow Hibiscus | Ma’o Hau Hele (Hibiscus brackenridgei)
The Yellow Hibiscus, or Ma’o Hau Hele, is Hawaii’s official state flower and a symbol of the islands’ natural beauty. Its large, golden-yellow blossoms with delicate petals make it one of the most striking Hawaii flowers.
This native hibiscus is considered endangered in the wild due to habitat loss, but it can still be seen in carefully maintained gardens and conservation areas. The Ma’o Hau Hele thrives in sunny, dry environments with well-draining soil. Beyond its vibrant color, it holds cultural importance as a native species, reminding visitors and locals alike of the need to protect Hawaii’s unique flora.9. Yellow Hibiscus | Ma’o Hau Hele (Hibiscus brackenridgei)
The Yellow Hibiscus, or Ma’o Hau Hele, is Hawaii’s official state flower and a symbol of the islands’ natural beauty. Its large, golden-yellow blossoms with delicate petals make it one of the most striking Hawaii flowers.
This native hibiscus is considered endangered in the wild due to habitat loss, but it can still be seen in carefully maintained gardens and conservation areas. The Ma’o Hau Hele thrives in sunny, dry environments with well-draining soil. Beyond its vibrant color, it holds cultural importance as a native species, reminding visitors and locals alike of the need to protect Hawaii’s unique flora.
10. Fragrant White Hibiscus | Koki’o ke’oke’o (Hibiscus arnottianus)
The Fragrant White Hibiscus, or Koki’o ke’oke’o, is one of the few hibiscus species with a natural fragrance, making it a highly prized Hawaii flower. Its large, ruffled white petals and striking red stamens create a timeless tropical look that brightens any garden.
Native to Oahu, this hibiscus thrives in sunny spots with moist, well-draining soil. It blooms year-round in warm climates, attracting pollinators like bees and birds. In Hawaiian gardens, Koki’o ke’oke’o is cherished not only for its beauty and aroma but also as a symbol of purity and the unique biodiversity of the islands.
11. Kauai White Hibiscus | Koki’o kea (Hibiscus waimeae)
The Kauai White Hibiscus, or Koki’o kea, is a rare and enchanting Hawaii flower that grows naturally only on the island of Kauai. This species produces large, pure white blossoms with a delicate fragrance, blooming mostly in the morning before its petals gently close by evening.
As an endangered native plant, Koki’o kea is found in limited areas, typically thriving in moist forest habitats. Gardeners who cultivate it in Hawaiian landscapes appreciate its elegant simplicity and the cultural significance of preserving native flowers. Its rarity and beauty make it a true gem among Hawaii’s floral treasures.
12. Red Kauai Rosemallow | Koki’o ‘ula‘ula (Hibiscus clayi)
The Red Kauai Rosemallow, or Koki’o ‘ula‘ula, is a striking and critically endangered Hawaii flower found only on the island of Kauai. Its vivid red blooms and lush green foliage make it a standout in native landscapes, while also serving as an important symbol of Hawaii’s rare and fragile plant life.
This hibiscus prefers sunny locations with well-draining soil and can bloom year-round in the right conditions. Conservation efforts are vital to protect Koki’o ‘ula‘ula in the wild, as habitat loss and invasive species have threatened its survival. For gardeners and native plant enthusiasts, cultivating this rare hibiscus helps preserve Hawaii’s floral heritage.
13. Linden Leaf Rosemallow | Akiohala (Hibiscus furcellatus)
The Linden Leaf Rosemallow, or Akiohala, is a unique Hawaii flower admired for its soft pink to purple blooms that open in the morning and close by evening. Often nicknamed the “sleepy hibiscus,” its delicate, funnel-shaped flowers and heart-shaped leaves bring a gentle charm to tropical landscapes.
This hibiscus thrives in wetland or coastal areas and adapts well to garden settings with moist, well-draining soil. In Hawaiian culture, species like Akiohala are a reminder of the islands’ diverse ecosystems, especially those found near rivers and wetlands. Gardeners often appreciate it for its subtle color and ability to attract pollinators.
14. Sea Hibiscus | Hau (Hibiscus tiliaceus)
The Sea Hibiscus, or Hau, is a coastal Hawaii flower well known for its color-changing blooms. Its flowers open bright yellow in the morning, shift to orange by midday, and turn deep red by evening before falling off. This daily transformation makes it a fascinating plant to observe in tropical landscapes.
Hau typically grows along shorelines and riverbanks, where its sprawling branches provide shade and erosion control. In Hawaiian culture, its wood and fibers have traditional uses, while its blossoms add beauty to coastal gardens. Its tolerance for salt and sandy soil makes it an ideal ornamental plant for seaside areas.
15. Native Red Hibiscus | Koki’o ‘ula (Hibiscus kokio)
The Native Red Hibiscus, or Koki’o ‘ula, is a brilliant Hawaii flower that showcases the islands’ natural beauty with its bold, scarlet blooms. This species is found in dry to mesic forests on several Hawaiian islands and is cherished for its ecological and cultural significance.
Its vivid red flowers are magnets for pollinators, especially native birds like the ʻiʻiwi and ʻapapane, which feed on its nectar. Gardeners value the Koki’o ‘ula for its vibrant color and its role in preserving Hawaii’s native plant heritage. With proper care, it can thrive in sunny, well-draining areas, adding a touch of natural Hawaiian history to home landscapes.
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16. Red Hibiscus (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis)
The Red Hibiscus, or Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, is one of the most recognizable tropical blooms and a staple among Hawaii flowers. With its large, showy red petals and bright yellow stamens, this hibiscus adds instant color and tropical flair to gardens, parks, and resorts across the islands.
Though not native to Hawaii, the red hibiscus thrives in the islands’ warm climate and blooms year-round with proper sunlight and well-draining soil. Its stunning flowers are often used in lei-making and decorative landscaping, embodying the aloha spirit with their vibrant, welcoming appearance.
17. Dendrobium Orchids
Dendrobium orchids are elegant tropical blooms that have become iconic Hawaii flowers due to their graceful appearance and long-lasting blossoms. Available in shades of white, purple, pink, and yellow, these orchids are popular for leis, floral arrangements, and home gardens.
They thrive in warm, humid conditions with filtered sunlight and good airflow. Dendrobiums are often grown in pots, hanging baskets, or mounted on trees, making them versatile for Hawaiian landscapes. Their resilience, frequent blooms, and association with Hawaiian hospitality make them a favorite for both local gardeners and visitors seeking a touch of tropical elegance.
18. Vanda Orchid
The Vanda Orchid is a vibrant tropical bloom celebrated for its large, striking flowers and intense colors, making it a standout among Hawaii flowers. These orchids come in shades of purple, blue, pink, and orange, often with intricate patterns that make each bloom unique.
Vanda orchids thrive in warm, humid environments with plenty of airflow and bright, indirect light. In Hawaii, they are commonly grown in hanging baskets or mounted to allow their roots to breathe, as they absorb moisture directly from the air. Their bold beauty and long-lasting flowers make them favorites in both tropical gardens and exotic floral arrangements.
19. Torch Ginger | Awapuhi-ko’oko’o (Etlingera elatior)
The Torch Ginger, or Awapuhi-ko’oko’o, is a dramatic tropical bloom that commands attention in any garden. Its tall stalks and torch-shaped clusters of bright red or pink bracts make it one of the most striking Hawaii flowers.
Torch ginger thrives in humid, partially shaded areas with rich, well-draining soil. In Hawaiian landscapes, it is often planted as a focal point in tropical gardens or used in exotic floral arrangements due to its long-lasting, vibrant blooms. Besides its beauty, the plant also has culinary uses in Southeast Asian cuisine, making it a versatile and valuable tropical species.
20. Red Ginger | Awapuhi ‘ula‘ula (Alpinia purpurata)
The Red Ginger, or Awapuhi ‘ula‘ula, is a tropical showstopper admired for its tall, brilliant red flower spikes. Often seen in resort gardens and home landscapes, it is among the most popular Hawaii flowers because of its vivid color and long-lasting blooms.
Red ginger thrives in warm, humid environments with partial shade and moist, well-draining soil. Its blossoms are actually colorful bracts that protect small, inconspicuous flowers within. Gardeners value it for its striking vertical growth, which can reach up to 6 feet tall, and its ability to provide a lush, tropical feel to any landscape year-round.
21. White Ginger Lily | Awapuhi-ke’oke’o (Hedychium coronarium)
The White Ginger Lily, or Awapuhi-ke’oke’o, is a fragrant tropical bloom cherished for its delicate, butterfly-like white petals. Among Hawaii flowers, it is especially loved for its sweet scent, which is often used in traditional lei-making and perfumes.
This ginger variety thrives in moist, partially shaded areas with rich, well-draining soil. It blooms during the warmer months, filling gardens with its captivating fragrance. In Hawaiian landscapes, white ginger lilies are often planted near walkways, lanais, or water features, allowing their aroma to enhance the outdoor experience. Their combination of beauty and fragrance makes them a classic tropical garden favorite.
22. Blue Ginger (Dichorisandra thyrsiflora)
The Blue Ginger is a rare tropical plant admired for its rich violet-blue blooms, making it a standout among Hawaii flowers. Despite its name, it isn’t a true ginger but shares similar upright growth habits and lush green foliage that give it a tropical appearance.
This plant thrives in partially shaded, humid environments with well-draining soil. Its vibrant blue blossoms appear in tall clusters, adding an unexpected pop of color to Hawaiian gardens that are often dominated by reds, yellows, and pinks. Gardeners prize Blue Ginger for its exotic appeal and its ability to bring depth and contrast to tropical landscapes.
Written by Elly 🌿
Founder of Flora Nurture, Elly is a lifelong garden lover inspired by her grandfather’s teachings. She shares soulful gardening wisdom rooted in nature, creativity, and mindful living.
Read more about Elly →Conclusion
Hawaii is home to an incredible variety of tropical blooms, from the iconic hibiscus to rare native species like Koki’o kea and Māmane. These Hawaii flowers not only add vibrant color and fragrance to gardens but also carry deep cultural and ecological significance. Whether you’re planting in your backyard or exploring the islands, each flower tells a story of beauty, heritage, and the importance of preserving Hawaii’s unique plant life.
By incorporating these flowers into your garden or lei-making traditions, you connect with the islands’ natural charm and contribute to the celebration of tropical biodiversity.
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