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.
The Most Common Flowers You'll See
When most people picture a lei, they're thinking of the Plumeria. These are the classic, five-petaled flowers that grow on trees in almost every neighborhood in Hawaii. They come in whites, yellows, pinks, and deep reds, and they smell like a mix of citrus and vanilla. Because they grow so abundantly, they're often the "gateway" lei. They're easy to string together, though they don't last particularly long—usually just a day before they start to brown at the edges.
Then there's the Dendrobium Orchid. If you've bought a lei at an airport or a grocery store, it was probably made of these. They are the workhorses of the lei world. Why? Because they're incredibly hardy. You can toss an orchid lei in the fridge, and it'll stay fresh for days. They don't have much of a scent, but they come in stunning purples, greens, and whites, and they look incredibly elegant because of their structured shape.
Tuberose is another heavy hitter, usually chosen specifically for its scent. It has a heavy, sweet, almost intoxicating floral aroma that can fill an entire room. Often, lei makers will alternate Tuberose with orchids to create a "double" lei that is both visually striking and smells like heaven.
The Fragrant and Delicate Options
If you're looking for something a bit more special (and a bit more expensive), you'll run into the Pikake. This is the Hawaiian name for Arabian Jasmine, and it was a favorite of Princess Kaʻiulani. These are tiny, white, ball-shaped buds that smell absolutely divine. Because they're so small and delicate, it takes hundreds of them to make a single strand. Usually, you'll see women wearing multiple strands of Pikake for weddings or very formal events.
Another fragrant favorite is the Gardenia. These are much larger and even more delicate than the Pikake. They bruise if you even look at them the wrong way, so you won't usually find these shipped across the ocean. They're a local luxury, often picked from a backyard and given immediately.
Then there's the Puakenikeni. The name literally translates to "ten-cent flower" because that's what they used to cost back in the day. They start out white when they're picked, turn yellow as the day goes on, and end up a deep orange by the next morning. Their scent changes as they age, too, becoming deeper and muskier.
Each Island Has Its Own Signature
One of the coolest things about Hawaiian culture is that each of the main islands has its own official lei material. It's not always a flower, either.
- Hawaii (The Big Island): Their flower is the 'Ohi'a Lehua. It's a fuzzy, bright red (sometimes yellow) blossom that looks like a little firework. It's deeply connected to the volcano goddess, Pele.
- Maui: They use the Lokelani, which is a small, pink, very fragrant cottage rose. It's actually the only non-native plant to be designated as an island flower.
- Oahu: You'll see the Pua 'Ilima. These look a bit like mini hibiscus. They are incredibly thin and paper-like, requiring thousands of petals to make a single strand. Back in the day, these were reserved for royalty.
- Kauai: They don't use a flower at all; they use the Mokihana berry. These are small green anise-scented berries that are usually woven with strands of Maile leaves.
- Molokai: Theirs is the Pua Kukui, the flower of the candlenut tree. They're tiny white blossoms, but more often, you'll see leis made from the polished silver or black nuts of the tree.
- Lanai: They use Kauna'oa, which is actually a bright orange, thread-like parasitic vine. It sounds weird, but it looks beautiful when braided.
It's Not Always Just About Flowers
While we're talking about what flowers are used for leis, we should probably mention that some of the most prestigious leis aren't made of flowers at all. The Maile lei is a prime example. It's a leafy green vine that is twisted together to create an open-ended garland. It has a fresh, spicy scent—kind of like woods and vanilla. You'll almost always see the groom wearing a Maile lei at a Hawaiian wedding, or a graduate wearing one over their gown.
Ti leaves are also incredibly common. You'll see them twisted (the hilo style) or braided. These are considered "good luck" and are often given to people for protection or healing. They're also great because they last forever—you can even dry them out and keep them as a memento.
And for the kids? Candy leis and money leis have become a huge staple at graduations. They aren't traditional in the botanical sense, but the intent is the same: showing love and celebrating a milestone.
How to Handle a Lei
If someone gives you a lei, there's a bit of etiquette to keep in mind. First off, never refuse one. It's considered pretty rude because a lei is a gift of affection. If you're allergic or the scent is too strong, it's okay to discreetly take it off after a little while, but try to wear it for at least the initial celebration.
Also, it's a big "no-no" to wear a lei that you intend to give to someone else. The mana (power or energy) of the lei is meant for the recipient. And if you're lucky enough to be given a lei while you're pregnant, traditional custom says it should be worn "open" (not tied in a circle) so as not to symbolize the umbilical cord wrapping around the baby's neck.
Caring for Your Flowers
If you want your lei to last as long as possible, you've got to treat it right. Most flower leis love a little moisture. You can lightly spritz them with water, wrap them in a damp paper towel, and put them in a sealed plastic bag in the fridge. Just don't put them in the coldest part of the fridge (like right near the fan) because the petals can actually get "frostbite" and turn black.
When the lei finally starts to wilt, don't just toss it in the trash. Traditionally, since the flowers came from the earth, they should be returned to the earth. People will often hang them on a tree branch, bury them in the garden, or even throw the petals into the ocean. It's a nice way to close the circle of the gift.
Honestly, knowing what flowers are used for leis makes the experience of receiving one even better. Whether it's a simple strand of purple orchids or a complex, hand-woven Maile vine, it's a reminder of the island's beauty and the spirit of aloha. So the next time you see someone draped in blossoms, you'll know exactly what went into making that fragrant masterpiece.