The Different Flowers You Can Find in a Hawaiian Wedding Lei
Explore Seven Flowers Used in Hawaiian Wedding Lei
Not all wedding lei feature the same flowers, and the differences go beyond appearance. Some blossoms carry deep historical or cultural associations, while others are prized for their fragrance or intricate arrangements. With so many options, how do you choose the blooms that best suit your ceremony? Here’s a comparison of the different flowers you can find in a Hawaiian wedding lei.
Plumeria
With its rounded petals and sweet fragrance, plumeria is one of Hawaii's most recognizable tropical flowers. Its soft, colorful blooms are especially well suited to outdoor weddings and beach ceremonies. Plumeria flowers are often strung together to create lei that complement the relaxed elegance of a tropical setting.
Although plumeria is closely associated with Hawaii, it's not native to the islands. Over time, it has become a familiar sight in Hawaiian gardens and floral arrangements. Its range of colors also makes it easy to coordinate with different wedding themes.
Popular Plumeria Colors for Weddings
White plumeria with yellow centers creates a classic look that complements traditional wedding attire. For a romantic touch, pink varieties offer a softer color, while bright yellow blossoms bring a cheerful tropical feel. Some varieties combine pink, red, and yellow, making them ideal for more vibrant arrangements. Plumeria can bruise easily, so handle finished lei gently before the ceremony.
Orchids
Orchid blooms have striking shapes and vibrant colors. Among the different flowers used in a Hawaiian wedding lei, they offer some of the most versatile styling options. Certain varieties are also relatively durable, making them practical for ceremonies and celebrations that last several hours.
Common orchid varieties used in lei include:
Vanda orchids: Known for their bold colors and distinctive patterned petals.
Mokara orchids: Feature star-shaped blooms in warm shades of orange, pink, and yellow.
Dendrobium orchids: Often used in colorful lei featuring shades of purple, white, and lavender.
Pikake (Jasmine)
Pikake, also known as Arabian jasmine, is prized for its small white blossoms and rich, sweet fragrance. Unlike larger tropical flowers, its delicate appearance creates an understated elegance. This makes it particularly appealing for formal weddings and traditional bridal accessories.
Its fragrance is a main reason couples choose pikake for their ceremonies. Even a simple strand can add a noticeable floral scent without needing an elaborate design. However, because these blossoms are delicate and availability can vary, it's best to confirm sourcing well before the wedding.
Traditional Uses in Bridal Lei
Pikake has long been associated with Hawaiian wedding traditions and is often chosen for bridal lei. You can string its small blossoms into delicate strands or arrange them into fuller, more intricate designs. Brides may wear these lei around their necks or incorporate the flowers into other ceremonial accessories.
Tuberose
Tuberose has clusters of waxy white blossoms and a strong, distinctive fragrance. Its elegant appearance makes it a natural complement to formal bridal attire. Depending on the desired style, the flowers can be arranged into delicate strands or fuller lei.
Fragrance is an important consideration when selecting tuberose, particularly for an extended celebration. While some people love its rich floral scent, others may find it overwhelming when worn close to the face. The right flowers depend on the look and experience you want for your wedding. When choosing a lei for your event, consider the setting, your preferred colors, and whether you'd enjoy a noticeable floral fragrance.
Combining Tuberose With Other Flowers
Tuberose pairs beautifully with other lei materials, allowing couples to experiment with color and texture. For a refined look, pair white tuberose with green maile leaves. Purple or lavender orchids add contrast while keeping an elegant look. When mixing fragrant flowers, consider how their scents will complement one another.
Hibiscus
Hibiscus is instantly recognizable by its large petals and prominent central stamens. Its blooms come in several vibrant colors, including red, yellow, pink, and orange. These bold flowers are particularly attractive for beach weddings and tropical-inspired floral designs.
However, hibiscus isn't always the most practical choice for a traditional strung lei. Its delicate petals can wilt or become damaged, especially during long ceremonies in warm weather. For this reason, hibiscus often works better in flower crowns or specially constructed arrangements that protect the blooms.
Ginger Flowers
Ginger flowers bring distinctive shapes and fragrances to Hawaiian wedding lei. Depending on the variety, you can use them to create delicate strands or fuller, more textured arrangements. White ginger is particularly appealing for weddings because of its elegant blossoms and sweet scent.
Several ginger varieties offer different possibilities for wedding lei:
White ginger features fragrant white flowers that pair beautifully with classic bridal colors.
Yellow ginger produces pale yellow blossoms with a rich, sweet fragrance.
Ginger bud lei can feature tightly woven buds that create a dense, textured appearance.
Crown Flowers
Crown flowers stand out for their star-shaped blossoms and waxy petals, usually found in white or pale lavender. Their structured appearance creates a different texture from the softer blooms of plumeria and pikake. As a result, they're an appealing option for couples who prefer detailed floral designs.
These blossoms are generally smaller than hibiscus or plumeria, giving crown flower lei a more delicate appearance. Their subtle colors also work well with formal wedding attire and understated accessories. These flowers require careful handling, so discuss preparation and storage with your lei maker.
Royal Connections in Hawaiian Culture
Queen Liliʻuokalani, Hawaii's last reigning monarch, was known for her fondness for crown flowers. Their association with the queen has made these blossoms a recognizable part of Hawaiian floral history. Today, crown flower lei reflect both traditional craftsmanship and this royal connection. Couples may choose them to incorporate a piece of Hawaiian history into their ceremony.
One of the pleasures of wearing a fresh flower lei is experiencing the blossoms throughout your wedding day. A fragrant variety can add another sensory element to the ceremony, while a colorful arrangement can beautifully complement your attire. Since you'll likely wear your lei for several hours, consider its weight, length, and comfort. The right choice looks beautiful and feels natural to wear as you celebrate.