What flowers are used for leis in Hawaii?

If you've ever stepped off a plane in Honolulu or attended a backyard graduation party in the islands, you might find yourself wondering exactly what flowers are used for leis and why they smell so incredible. It's one of those traditions that everyone recognizes instantly, but there's actually a ton of history and specific "rules" behind which blooms get picked for which occasion. A lei isn't just a necklace; it's basically a hug you can wear, and the materials used to make them tell a story about the land and the person wearing it. ...

May 14, 2026 · 6 min · Star Marguerite