“Hawaiian flower names showcase the vibrant and unique blooms of Hawaii, perfect for gardening, leis, and cultural inspiration.”
Curious to discover Hawaii’s most stunning and fragrant flowers that tell a story of the islands? Hawaii is home to a breathtaking variety of blooms, each with its own color, fragrance, symbolism, and cultural significance.
From the iconic Hibiscus, which symbolizes delicate beauty, to fragrant Plumeria representing positivity and aloha, the striking Bird of Paradise, and the rare sacred Ohia Lehua, Hawaiian flower names reflect the islands’ natural charm and heritage.
Each flower carries meaning—some symbolize love, respect, or beauty—and many are used in leis, ceremonies, and celebrations.
In this article, you’ll find a full list of Hawaiian flower names with meanings, cultural notes, and popular uses, making it perfect for gardening enthusiasts, cultural explorers, or anyone fascinated by Hawaii’s flora.
Scroll down to explore the full list and discover each flower’s unique story, history, and significance. If your goal is to learn, garden, or celebrate Hawaiian culture, this guide is your ultimate floral resource.
Popular & Famous Hawaiian Flower Names
These are the classic, well-loved flowers you most often see in leis and pictures of Hawaii.
Hibiscus (Hibiscus / Aloalo)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: Hawaii’s state flower. Comes in many colors (red, yellow, pink). Shows bright, welcoming beauty.
Best For: A lively, friendly, and classic Hawaiian vibe.
Plumeria (Frangipani / Melia)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: Famous for its sweet scent and use in leis. Means grace, charm, and new beginnings.
Best For: Someone with a gentle, sweet, and welcoming spirit.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: A striking, tall orange and blue flower that looks like a bird. Stands for joy and freedom.
Best For: A bold, unique, and artistic personality.
Orchid (ʻOkika)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: Elegant and delicate. In Hawaii, often means love, beauty, and strength.
Best For: A refined, graceful, and strong individual.
Pikake (Jasmine)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (pee-KAH-kay) A small, white, very fragrant flower. It was a favorite of Princess Kaʻiulani. Means modesty and simplicity.
Best For: A person with a quiet, sweet, and timeless grace.
Hawaiian Flowers Names and Pictures
Explore Hawaii’s most beautiful blooms with names, meanings, and how to recognize them.
Hibiscus (Aloalo)
Pronunciation: (hih-BIS-kus / ah-loh-AH-loh)
Meaning: Delicate beauty. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Bright and welcoming.
Best For: A lively, friendly, and classic Hawaiian vibe.
Plumeria (Melia)
Pronunciation: (ploo-MEER-ee-ah / meh-LEE-ah)
Meaning: Grace, new beginnings. Origin: Tropical America, naturalized in Hawaii. Vibe: Sweet and romantic.
Best For: Someone with a gentle, sweet, and welcoming spirit.
Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia)
Pronunciation: (strel-IT-see-ah)
Meaning: Joy, freedom. Origin: South Africa. Vibe: Bold and artistic.
Best For: A bold, unique, and artistic personality.
Orchid (ʻOkika)
Pronunciation: (OR-kid / oh-KEE-kah)
Meaning: Love, beauty, strength. Origin: Worldwide, many native to Hawaii. Vibe: Elegant and delicate.
Best For: A refined, graceful, and strong individual.
Pikake (Jasmine)
Pronunciation: (pee-KAH-kay)
Meaning: Modesty, simplicity. Origin: India, beloved in Hawaii. Vibe: Sweet and timeless.
Best For: A person with a quiet, sweet, and timeless grace.
ʻŌhiʻa Lehua
Pronunciation: (oh-HEE-ah leh-HOO-ah)
Meaning: Strength, devotion. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Fiery and passionate.
Best For: A fiery, strong, and passionate spirit.
Ilima
Pronunciation: (ee-LEE-mah)
Meaning: Love, respect. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Golden and cherished.
Best For: A precious, bright, and warmly loved person.
Naupaka
Pronunciation: (now-PAH-kah)
Meaning: Half-flower, separated love. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Mysterious and romantic.
Best For: A story of separated love, longing, and finding your other half.
Hinahina
Pronunciation: (hee-nah-HEE-nah)
Meaning: Silvery, toughness. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Resilient and unique.
Best For: Someone resilient, unique, and connected to the land and sea.
Kokiʻo (Hawaiian White Hibiscus)
Pronunciation: (koh-KEE-oh)
Meaning: Rare beauty. Origin: Native to Hawaii. Vibe: Exquisite and endangered.
Best For: Symbolizing rare, endangered, and exquisite beauty worth protecting.
Traditional Lei Hawaiian Flower Names
These flowers are specially chosen and woven into the beautiful garlands called leis, given as gifts of affection.
Ilima
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (ee-LEE-mah) The official flower of Oʻahu. Tiny, delicate golden-orange blossoms. Symbolizes love and respect.
Best For: Representing deep affection and honor for someone special.
Māilie
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (mah-EE-lee-eh) A fragrant vine with small white flowers used in delicate, elegant leis.
Best For: A lei that shows sophistication and pure, sweet sentiment.
Pua Kenikeni
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (poo-ah ken-ee-KEN-ee) The name means “ten-cent flower,” as it was once sold for making leis. Very fragrant, changing from white to orange.
Best For: A cherished, fragrant lei that tells a story of tradition.
Native & Endemic Hawaiian Flower Names
These are flowers that grew in Hawaii long before people arrived. They are special and unique to the islands.
Hinahina (Hawaiian Geranium)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (hee-nah-HEE-nah) A silvery-gray plant that thrives on beaches. It means “silvery” and stands for toughness and beauty.
Best For: Someone resilient, unique, and connected to the land and sea.
Koʻoloaʻula (Bird of Paradise Flower)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (koh-oh-loh-ah-OO-lah) A rare native shrub with unique red flowers. It is endangered and very special.
Best For: Symbolizing rare beauty, strength, and the importance of protection.
Maʻo Hau Hele (Native Yellow Hibiscus)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (mah-oh how HAY-lay) Hawaii’s official state flower. A beautiful native yellow hibiscus. Means “royal” and “native.”
Best For: The ultimate symbol of true Hawaiian pride and natural beauty.
Ocean Flower Names
These beautiful coastal blooms thrive near the shore, kissed by salt spray and ocean winds.
Naupaka Kahakai (now-PAH-kah kah-hah-KAI)
Meaning: Half-flower of the ocean. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Romantic and mysterious.
Best For: A lover of the sea with a heart touched by legend.
Hinahina (hee-nah-HEE-nah)
Meaning: Silvery gray. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Resilient and fragrant.
Best For: Someone tough, beautiful, and thriving against all odds.
Pōhuehue (POH-hoo-eh-HOO-eh)
Meaning: Beach morning glory. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Spreading and free.
Best For: A free spirit who wanders but always comes back to the shore.
Naupaka (now-PAH-kah)
Meaning: Half-flower. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Sacred and romantic.
Best For: A soul searching for their other half, connected to land and sea.
ʻIlima (ee-LEE-mah)
Meaning: Golden treasure. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Delicate and cherished.
Best For: A precious one who blooms brightest near the ocean’s edge.
Pua Pohuehue (POO-ah POH-hoo-eh-HOO-eh)
Meaning: Flower of the beach vine. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Humble and hardy.
Best For: A quiet soul with quiet strength, like waves on sand.
ʻĀkulikuli (ah-koo-lee-KOO-lee)
Meaning: Seaside portulaca. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Succulent and sun-loving.
Best For: A bright spirit who thrives in sunshine and salt air.
Nehe (NEH-heh)
Meaning: Coastal sunflower. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Cheerful and spreading.
Best For: A ray of sunshine who brings joy to every shoreline.
Kāwelu (kah-VEH-loo)
Meaning: Coastal sedge. Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Wispy and graceful.
Best For: A gentle soul who sways but never breaks.
Nanea (nah-NEH-ah)
Meaning: Beach morning glory (another variety). Origin: Native Hawaiian. Vibe: Relaxed and content.
Best For: One who finds peace watching waves and feeling ocean breezes.
Fragrant Hawaiian Flower Names
These blossoms are known first and foremost for their amazing, unforgettable scents.
Pikake (Jasmine)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (pee-KAH-kay) As mentioned, its sweet, rich perfume is iconic. The scent of romance and memory.
Best For: Anyone who leaves a sweet, lasting impression.
Plumeria (Frangipani / Melia)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: Its fragrance is the signature scent of tropical evenings and warm welcomes.
Best For: Creating an instant feeling of paradise and happiness.
Gardenia (Kiele)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (kee-EH-leh) A creamy white flower with an intensely sweet, heavy fragrance. Symbolizes purity and joy.
Best For: A classic, luxurious, and deeply romantic scent.
Hawaiian Word for Beautiful Flower
Pua Nani (POO-ah NAH-nee)
Meaning: Beautiful flower. Usage: General term for any lovely bloom. Vibe: Simple and sweet.
Best For: Describing a stunning flower in everyday conversation.
Pua Lokelani (POO-ah loh-kay-LAH-nee)
Meaning: Heavenly rose flower. Usage: Specifically for roses or a beloved flower. Vibe: Romantic and elegant.
Best For: A flower that reminds you of love and grace.
Pua Leilani (POO-ah lay-ee-LAH-nee)
Meaning: Heavenly child flower. Usage: Poetic term for a royal or precious bloom. Vibe: Regal and cherished.
Best For: A flower so beautiful it feels like royalty.
Pua ʻIlima (POO-ah ee-LEE-mah)
Meaning: ʻIlima flower. Usage: The golden flower of Oʻahu. Vibe: Delicate and treasured.
Best For: A small, precious flower with deep cultural meaning.
Pua Melia (POO-ah meh-LEE-ah)
Meaning: Plumeria flower. Usage: The fragrant lei flower. Vibe: Sweet and welcoming.
Best For: A flower that fills the air with paradise scent.
Pua ʻŌhiʻa Lehua (POO-ah oh-HEE-ah leh-HOO-ah)
Meaning: ʻŌhiʻa Lehua flower. Usage: The legendary red volcano flower. Vibe: Strong and passionate.
Best For: A flower born from fire and love, tough and beautiful.
Pua Hinahina (POO-ah hee-nah-HEE-nah)
Meaning: Silvery beach flower. Usage: The hardy plant growing by the ocean. Vibe: Resilient and unique.
Best For: A flower that thrives where others can’t — strong and lovely.
Pua Kiele (POO-ah kee-EH-leh)
Meaning: Gardenia flower. Usage: The creamy white, intensely fragrant bloom. Vibe: Luxurious and pure.
Best For: A flower whose beauty is matched by its unforgettable scent.
Pua Naupaka (POO-ah now-PAH-kah)
Meaning: Naupaka flower. Usage: The unique half-flower of beach and mountain. Vibe: Mysterious and romantic.
Best For: A flower that tells a story of separated lovers.
Pua ʻAwapuhi (POO-ah ah-vah-POO-hee)
Meaning: Shampoo ginger flower. Usage: The unique cone-shaped bloom with practical uses. Vibe: Useful and unexpectedly beautiful.
Best For: A flower that is both lovely and helpful — beauty with purpose.
Colorful Hawaiian Flower Names (By Color)
Let’s explore flowers by the beautiful colors they bring to the islands.
Red: ʻŌhiʻa Lehua
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (oh-HEE-ah leh-HOO-ah) A vibrant red puff flower from the native ʻōhiʻa tree. Linked to the volcano goddess Pele. Means strength and devotion.
Best For: A fiery, strong, and passionate spirit.
Yellow: Maʻo Hau Hele & Ilima
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: Yellow is the color of royalty and welcome. Both flowers are golden treasures.
Best For: Someone with a sunny, welcoming, and noble personality.
Pink: Lokelani (Damask Rose)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (loh-kay-LAH-nee) The official flower of Maui. “Loke” means rose. It symbolizes love and beauty.
Best For: A loving, beautiful, and compassionate heart.
White: Pua Aloalo (White Hibiscus)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (poo-ah ah-loh-AH-loh) A rare and beautiful white hibiscus. Represents purity, clarity, and rare beauty.
Best For: Symbolizing pure intentions, peace, and uncommon grace.
Hawaiian Flower Names for Girls
These floral names are beautiful, melodic, and perfect for a baby girl.
Leilani
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (lay-ee-LAH-nee) “Heavenly flowers” or “royal child of heaven.” A top favorite name.
Best For: A girl destined to be graceful, beloved, and beautiful inside and out.
Lokelani
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (loh-kay-LAH-nee) The pink rose of Maui, meaning “heavenly rose.”
Best For: A sweet, loving girl with a strong and beautiful spirit.
Pualani
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (poo-ah-LAH-nee) “Heavenly flower” or “royal offspring.” A regal and lovely name.
Best For: A girl with a dignified, kind, and naturally graceful presence.
Ilima
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (ee-LEE-mah) Golden, delicate, and cherished. The flower of Oʻahu.
Best For: A precious, bright, and warmly loved daughter.
Nani
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (NAH-nee) Simply means “beauty.” It is a common word for beautiful things, including flowers.
Best For: A girl whose beauty, inside and out, is clear and simple.
Hawaiian Flower Names for Boys
Strong and nature-based, these names connect a boy to the land and its power.
Kanoa
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (kah-NOH-ah) Means “the free one.” While not a flower, it evokes the open fields where flowers bloom.
Best For: An independent, strong-willed, and free-spirited boy.
Kaimana
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (ky-MAH-nah) Means “power of the ocean” or “sea diamond.” Connects to the beach where flowers like Hinahina grow.
Best For: A boy with deep strength, clarity, and a connection to nature.
Lehua
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (leh-HOO-ah) From the strong ʻōhiʻa lehua blossom. A unisex name symbolizing strength.
Best For: A resilient, brave, and passionate boy with a strong heart.
Unique & Lesser-Known Hawaiian Flower Names
Discover the hidden gems of Hawaii’s floral world.
ʻAwapuhi (Shampoo Ginger)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (ah-vah-POO-hee) A plant whose liquid is used like shampoo. Its flower is a unique cone. Means natural utility and beauty.
Best For: A practical, helpful, and uniquely beautiful personality.
Hapuʻu (Hawaiian Tree Fern)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (hah-POO-oo) While known for its fronds, it has a subtle flower. Represents the lush, green heart of the forest.
Best For: Someone who is a protector, grounded, and provides shelter for others.
Kokiʻo (Hawaiian White Hibiscus)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (koh-KEE-oh) A group of rare native white hibiscus species. Extremely special and delicate.
Best For: Symbolizing rare, endangered, and exquisite beauty worth protecting.
Hawaiian Flower Names in Culture & Legends
These flowers are stars in the stories and traditions of Hawaii.
ʻŌhiʻa Lehua (Pele’s Flower)
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: In legend, the lovers ʻŌhiʻa and Lehua were turned into this tree and flower by the volcano goddess Pele.
Best For: Symbolizing eternal, undying love and the powerful forces of nature.
Naupaka
Meaning + Origin + Vibe: (now-PAH-kah) A beach plant with half-flowers. A legend says two lovers were separated, and the flower grows in halves to represent them.
Best For: A story of separated love, longing, and finding your other half.
How to Pronounce Hawaiian Flower Names
Hawaiian words are easier than they look! Here’s a simple guide:
- Every letter is sounded out. There are no silent letters.
- Vowels are the key: A (ah), E (eh), I (ee), O (oh), U (oo).
- Consonants are like in English, but W can sound like a V.
- Break words into chunks: Pu-a-ke-ke-ke (Puakiekie).
- Listen online! Use pronunciation websites or videos to hear the beautiful melody of the language.
Conclusion
The world of Hawaiian flower names is a rainbow of beauty, scent, and deep meaning. From the famous hibiscus to the rare kokiʻo, each name tells a story about the islands’ heart, history, and culture. Learning these names does more than teach you about plants; it helps you understand the Hawaiian way of seeing beauty in nature and sharing the aloha spirit.
We hope this guide to Hawaiian flowers and their names helps you find the perfect bloom for your lei, your garden, or even a special name. Remember, saying these names is part of the fun. So go ahead, try pronouncing “Pua Kenikeni” or “ʻŌhiʻa Lehua.” You’ll be carrying a little piece of Hawaii’s beauty with you wherever you go.
(FAQs)
Q1: What is the most popular Hawaiian flower name?
A1: The most popular is the Hibiscus (Aloalo), especially the yellow Maʻo Hau Hele, which is the state flower.
Q2: What is a good Hawaiian flower name for a girl?
A2: Leilani (“heavenly flowers”) is a classic and beautiful Hawaiian flower name for a girl.
Q3: What Hawaiian flower name means love?
A3: The Ilima flower symbolizes love and respect and is often used in leis for loved ones.
Q4: How do you say “flower” in Hawaiian?
A4: The Hawaiian word for flower is “Pua,” and it is part of many Hawaiian flower names.
Q5: What is a unique native Hawaiian flower name?
A5: ʻŌhiʻa Lehua is a unique and famous native Hawaiian flower name with a powerful legend behind it.
Mary Butts was a British modernist writer known for her experimental style, myth-inspired themes, and influential novels exploring psychology and spirituality.
