Hawaiian flowers are more than just beautiful; they’re woven into the heart of island culture. You might picture a fragrant plumeria lei or the bold bloom of a hibiscus tucked behind someone’s ear.
These tropical beauties don’t just brighten the landscape; they carry stories, traditions, and a sense of aloha wherever they bloom.
If you love island vibes and want a glimpse into Hawaii’s floral charm, this list will take you there. Each flower shines in its own way, with vivid colors, striking forms, and sometimes even the ability to thrive indoors.
Curious which blooms are most iconic? Let’s explore these 13 unforgettable Hawaiian flowers and what makes them so special.
#1 Birds of Paradise
Source: Gardenerspath
Birds of Paradise stand tall with their fan-like leaves and vivid, bird-shaped blooms in orange and blue. They grow best in zones 10 to 12, reaching 4–5 feet high and about 2–3 feet wide.
Their unique structure gives a dramatic, sculptural look to any space. If you’re growing them indoors, place the plant near bright, indirect sunlight.
Keep the soil evenly moist and feed it with a balanced fertilizer every few weeks during spring and summer.
#2 Ohia Lehua
Source: Civilbeat
Ohia Lehua is one of Hawaii’s most treasured native flowers, often seen in fiery red but also blooming in orange, yellow, pink, or white.
It grows best in zones 9 to 11 and thrives in full sun with boggy or basalt-rich soil. This plant has deep cultural significance and is linked to many Hawaiian legends.
It prefers humid environments, so mist it often if grown indoors. Use well-draining soil and avoid disturbing its roots when transplanting.
#3 Anthurium
Source: Gardeningknowhow
Anthuriums have glossy, heart-shaped leaves and flowers that look too perfect to be real. They come in shades of red, pink, white, green, and even purple. Hardy in zones 10 to 11, these tropical charmers do well in bright but filtered light.
To keep the plant thriving, water when the top inch of soil feels dry. Provide high humidity and avoid direct sunlight that could scorch the leaves.
#4 Ilima
Source: Davesgarden
Ilima blooms with small, five-petaled flowers in cheerful yellow to orange tones. Native to Hawaii, it thrives in zones 10 to 11 and loves full sun and sandy, well-drained soil.
Traditionally, these flowers are woven into leis for special occasions. You can grow Ilima in containers, but make sure the pot has excellent drainage. Water regularly, but let the soil dry slightly between each watering.
#5 Naupaka
Source: Privatetourshawaii
Naupaka flowers are famous for their half-shaped blooms that look like they’re missing a twin. They thrive in coastal or mountain regions across Hawaii and prefer zones 10 to 12. Their subtle fragrance and unique shape make them stand out.
Plant Naupaka in full sun and allow the soil to dry out slightly between waterings. These hardy plants tolerate salty conditions, making them perfect for beachy gardens.
#6 Plumeria
Source: Gardeningknowhow
Plumeria is one of the most iconic Hawaiian flowers, known for its fragrant blooms in white, yellow, pink, purple, or salmon. Grown in zones 9 to 11, they can be trained into small trees or large shrubs. The sweet scent is most intense at night.
Keep them in well-draining soil and allow the top layer to dry before watering again. A sunny spot and occasional pruning will help it grow full and lush.
#7 Kahili Ginger
Source: Amazon
Kahili Ginger produces tall, fragrant spikes of yellow blooms accented with red stamens, creating a feathered look. It grows well in zones 8 to 13 and can reach up to 6–8 feet tall. The plant adds a tropical flair and a spicy-sweet scent to any space.
Use rich, moist, and well-draining soil. Mix potting soil with sand and peat moss, and place the plant where it can enjoy dappled sunlight.
#8 Passion Fruit Flower
Source: Gardeningknowhow
Passion Fruit Flower is a showstopper with intricate blooms in red, white, purple, or blue. These exotic vines thrive in zones 9 to 12 and also reward you with delicious fruit.
The plant likes moist, well-draining soil and a sunny to partly shady location. Support its climbing habit with a trellis or stake. Prune it regularly to keep it from becoming too unruly indoors.
#9 Pikake
Source: Westhawaiitoday
Pikake, also known as Arabian Jasmine, fills the air with its intoxicating fragrance and delicate white blooms. It’s hardy in zones 8 to 11 and often blooms year-round in warm climates. These petite flowers are traditionally used in leis.
Give Pikake full sunlight and keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy. Regular feeding during the growing season helps encourage more blooms.
#10 Protea
Source: Gardenersworld
Protea flowers look like something from another world, with large, spiky blooms surrounded by colorful bracts in white, pink, or crimson. They thrive in zones 9 to 12 and add dramatic flair to gardens and floral arrangements.
Grow Protea in well-draining, slightly acidic soil and full sun. Water deeply but infrequently to mimic their native conditions.
#11 Red Ginger
Source: Thespruce
Red Ginger produces tall spikes of vivid pink, red, or white bracts that look like floral torches. They do best in zones 8 to 11 and love warm, humid environments. This tropical beauty makes a bold statement indoors or out.
Use rich, moist soil and offer bright, indirect light. Keep the environment humid by misting often or using a pebble tray.
#12 Heliconia
Source: Greenparadiselive
Heliconia is hard to miss with its towering, brightly colored bracts in fiery red, orange, or yellow-green. It thrives in zones 10 to 13 and can grow as tall as 12–16 feet.
Known for its bird-like flowers, this plant is a favorite in tropical landscapes. Provide plenty of humidity and filtered light. Keep the soil moist and feed it monthly during the growing season.
#13 Hawaiian Hibiscus
Source: Floraqueen
Hawaiian Hibiscus is the state flower, famous for its large, trumpet-shaped blooms in bright red, yellow, pink, or white. It grows best in zones 9 to 10 and blooms frequently in warm weather. These flowers bring instant island vibes to any setting.
Plant them in rich, well-draining soil and full sun. Water deeply when the soil feels dry and trim back in early spring to promote new growth.