Types of Flowers on Oahu, Hawaii
Hawaii is said to be one of the most beautiful places on Earth. Its tropical beaches, trembling volcanoes and jewel-toned sunsets aren't the only thing that mesmerize tourists and natives. All of its islands are home to endless species of plant life. Oahu has some of the world's most beautiful flowers between its shores. Does this Spark an idea?
Hibiscus
When you think about Hawaiian flowers, an image of a hibiscus probably comes to mind. This is the big, brightly colored trumpet-shaped flower that is used in almost any tropical patterned fabric, clothing or design. The yellow hibiscus is the state flower of Hawaii. A few species of hibiscus have always been native to the Hawaiian Islands, but other varieties were brought in from Asia and the Pacific islands to cultivate new hybrids.
Yellow Ilima
Discover the official flower of Oahu, the yellow ilima. The yellow ilima is only about an inch wide but looks a lot like a hibiscus. They are very popular flowers for making leis. Not only is the Yellow ilima pretty to look at, it also serves medicinal purposes. The people of the Hawaiian Islands used the juice of the pressed flowers as a healing elixir for children and pregnant women.
Plumeria
Make a lei with the fragrant blooms of a plumeria flower. The plumeria, whose official name is frangipani, is most well known as being a flower of choice for making leis. These small, propeller-shaped flowers have a touch of gold in the center and are very fragrant. The flowers grow on a branchy shrub or small tree and come in pink, white, red and yellow. Plumeria grows in Oahu but it is not native to the island.
Naupaka
Look for a naupaka flower on the beach and discover the legend that goes along with it. Because it resembles only half a flower, with petals growing on one side, A traditional story says the naupaka flower is the reincarnation of a princess who was separated from her lover. It is a common beach plant that can grow to 10 feet tall. The flowers grow in small clusters and are white with purple stripes.
Pohuehue
Take an early morning stroll on the beaches of Oahu. You may notice a vining plant with trumpet-like flowers. The pohuehue or beach morning glory is abundant on the beaches of the Hawaiian Islands. This hardy vine attaches its roots deep into the ground and is resistant to the salt and wind of the beach. The delicate flowers are purple or pink and only open up in the early morning.
Tags: Hawaiian Islands, early morning, flowers grow, Flowers Oahu, Flowers Oahu Hawaii