Leis are beautiful, fragrant garlands made from flowers, commonly seen in Hawaiian culture, symbolizing love, honor, and respect. They are often worn during special occasions such as weddings, graduations, and festive celebrations. But what flowers are typically used to make these vibrant and aromatic adornments? In this article, we’ll explore the most popular flowers used for leis, their characteristics, and how they contribute to the rich traditions surrounding this timeless symbol.
The Common Flowers Used to Make Leis
Leis are crafted from a variety of flowers, each chosen for its color, scent, and symbolism. These flowers are often native to tropical regions, with Hawaii being one of the most iconic locations for leis. While there are numerous flowers that can be used, some stand out due to their availability, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
1. Plumeria (Frangipani)
Plumeria is one of the most beloved flowers used to make leis. These flowers are known for their delicate, star-shaped petals and strong, sweet fragrance. Plumeria comes in a range of colors, including white, yellow, pink, and red, making it versatile and perfect for creating colorful leis. The flower’s sweet scent is instantly recognizable and adds a delightful aromatic touch to any lei.
Characteristics of Plumeria:
- Soft, fragrant petals
- Available in a variety of colors
- Symbolizes positivity, beauty, and new beginnings
Plumeria leis are often worn to celebrate joyful events, such as weddings and festivals. They hold a deep meaning in Hawaiian culture, symbolizing the spirit of aloha, which embodies love, kindness, and harmony.
2. Orchid
Orchids are another popular flower choice for leis. Known for their stunning beauty and long-lasting nature, orchids are commonly used in both traditional and modern leis. They come in a range of colors, from deep purples to whites and even vibrant reds and yellows. Orchids are often chosen for their elegance and durability, as they can last for several days without wilting.
Characteristics of Orchids:
- Exquisite beauty and elegance
- Available in many colors
- Known for their long-lasting freshness
Orchids symbolize luxury, strength, and love, making them a perfect choice for significant celebrations such as graduations and anniversaries.
3. Tuberose
Tuberose flowers are highly fragrant and commonly used in leis. With their waxy white blooms, tuberoses have a rich, intoxicating scent that makes them stand out. Their fragrance is often used in perfumes, and their inclusion in a lei adds a layer of luxury and sophistication.
Characteristics of Tuberose:
- Strong, intoxicating fragrance
- Elegant white petals
- Symbolizes sensuality and passion
Tuberose leis are often worn during romantic occasions, representing deep love and connection. Their strong scent lingers in the air, adding an unforgettable element to the celebration.
4. Pikake (Jasmine)
Pikake, or Hawaiian jasmine, is a fragrant white flower with delicate petals that are often used in leis. The flowers are small, but they pack a punch in terms of scent. Pikake leis are cherished for their pleasant, sweet fragrance that can last for days, making them a favorite for both leis and traditional Hawaiian perfumes.
Characteristics of Pikake:
- Small, delicate white flowers
- Sweet and lasting fragrance
- Symbolizes love, purity, and beauty
Pikake flowers are commonly used for romantic events, as they represent love and beauty in its purest form.
5. Ginger
Ginger flowers are used in leis for their striking appearance and sweet, spicy fragrance. These flowers come in shades of white, pink, and red and are larger and more bold than many other flowers used in leis. Ginger leis are often worn during festive occasions or to mark significant milestones.
Characteristics of Ginger:
- Large, vibrant flowers
- Sweet, spicy fragrance
- Symbolizes strength and vitality
Ginger leis are often associated with strength and vitality, making them a fitting choice for celebrations of achievement or new beginnings.
6. Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea is known for its vibrant colors, ranging from pink to purple to red. These flowers are often used in leis for their bold, eye-catching hues. While bougainvillea flowers themselves are small, their colorful bracts, which resemble petals, are what make them stand out. Bougainvillea leis are often worn at festive gatherings, bringing a splash of color and life to the occasion.
Characteristics of Bougainvillea:
- Bright, vibrant colors
- Small, papery flowers with large bracts
- Symbolizes passion and beauty
Bougainvillea is often used for leis that celebrate lively events or gatherings, as its vibrant colors reflect the joyous spirit of the occasion.
7. Hibiscus
The hibiscus flower is another iconic choice for leis, particularly in tropical and subtropical regions. The large, showy blooms of hibiscus come in an array of colors, including red, pink, white, and yellow. Known for their beauty and simplicity, hibiscus flowers are often used in both traditional and contemporary leis.
Characteristics of Hibiscus:
- Large, showy flowers
- Available in a wide range of colors
- Symbolizes beauty, femininity, and strength
Hibiscus leis are commonly worn for celebrations that honor femininity, beauty, and resilience, such as birthdays or bridal showers.
8. Maile Leaves
While not a flower, maile leaves are an important component in traditional Hawaiian leis. These aromatic leaves are woven into leis and are often used as a base or accompaniment to the flowers. Maile leis are symbolic of peace, respect, and friendship, making them a fitting choice for formal events or ceremonies.
Characteristics of Maile Leaves:
- Long, aromatic leaves
- Woven into leis
- Symbolizes peace, respect, and unity
Maile leis are often worn during ceremonies or significant occasions, where they serve as a reminder of the importance of respect and peace.
How to Make a Lei
Making a lei involves stringing together flowers, leaves, or other plant materials to create a garland. The flowers are typically threaded onto a strong string or thread, often using a needle, and carefully arranged to create a balanced and symmetrical design. Some leis are made by threading the flowers in a continuous loop, while others are woven together for a more intricate effect.
1. Select the Flowers
The first step in making a lei is selecting the flowers. Depending on the occasion and personal preference, you can choose from a variety of flowers like plumeria, orchid, or hibiscus. Be sure to choose flowers that are fresh and have a good fragrance, as this will ensure your lei lasts longer.
2. Prepare the Flowers
Once you have your flowers, remove any leaves or stems that are not needed. Cut the flowers to a suitable length, leaving enough of a stem to thread them onto your string. Be mindful of the colors and arrangement you desire.
3. String the Flowers
Using a needle and strong thread, carefully thread each flower, making sure to place them closely together. You can alternate colors or create a pattern, depending on the design you want to achieve.
4. Finish the Lei
Once you’ve strung all the flowers, tie the ends of the thread together securely, making sure the lei forms a circle. If you’re using maile leaves, you can weave them into the lei for additional texture and fragrance.
The Significance of Leis in Hawaiian Culture
In Hawaiian culture, leis are more than just decorative accessories. They are symbols of affection, respect, and goodwill. When given as a gift, a lei represents the sender’s love and care for the recipient. The act of giving a lei is an important gesture, often seen as a way to welcome someone, celebrate an achievement, or honor a loved one.
Leis also hold spiritual significance in Hawaiian traditions. They are often used in ceremonies, such as weddings, graduations, and luaus, as a way to mark important milestones in life. The act of receiving a lei is seen as a blessing, signifying the joy and blessings that come with the occasion.
Conclusion
Leis are a beautiful and meaningful part of Hawaiian culture, created from a variety of flowers, each with its unique beauty and symbolism. From the sweet fragrance of plumeria to the elegance of orchids, the flowers used in leis add depth, meaning, and beauty to any occasion. Whether worn for a wedding, graduation, or festive celebration, leis remain a timeless symbol of aloha, representing love, respect, and joy.
