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PLUMERIA
The Plumeria is the most common flower to be found in Hawaii. It is not a native species though. It has its origin in tropical and subtropical America. The Plumeria was named after the French botanist Charles Plumier, who did a lot of research in the Americas in the 17th century. Plumeria is the flower most often used in leis, and therefore it is very recognizable for visitors to Hawaii, who will identify Hawaii and its beautiful, handmade leis with the Plumeria flower. |
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ORCHID
The orchid, although it is not native to Hawaii, is a flower that blooms happily on the islands. There are many different types of orchids. On Hawaii, the Dendrobium orchid has gained most popularity, thanks to its beautiful colours and suitability for lei making. Hardiness and longevity are perfect characteristics for a flower when it is used for lei making. Beginning in the 1950s, the Dendrobium orchid has become ever more widespread, not only because it was bred for commercial purposes, but also because the University of Hawaii has a special breeding program for the flower. |
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POHUEHUE
The Pohuehue, or beach morning glory, is an indigenous Hawaiian plant. It has purple and pink, trumpet shaped petals. It lies lose to the ground and the petals open only in the cool hours of the morning. The Pohuehue lives on salt water, and its vines wind themselves down the beach and stretch into the ocean. Its seeds are dispersed in salt water too. It is not only found along the shores of Hawaii, but also on other tropical beaches around the world.
The Pohuehue is suitable for making leis, but it also has a very important role in the ecosystem of the shore. It holds together the sand, so that it stops erosion and small dunes can form. Native Hawaiians used the Pohuehue for various medical solutions, such as for example healing broken bones or bad skin. Surfers used to slap the Pohuehue vines in the ocean water to convince the sea to provide good waves that day. |
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