Hawaii is home to some of the most stunning flora in the world. Here are 10 of the most beautiful plants you can find across the islands, along with their descriptions and the best times of year to see them:
1. Hawaiian Hibiscus (Hibiscus brackenridgei)
• Description: The yellow hibiscus, known as maʻo hau hele, is Hawaii’s state flower. It features large, bright yellow blooms and grows as a shrub or small tree.
• Best Time to See: Blooms year-round, but the peak display is in spring and summer.
2. Hawaiian Silversword (Argyroxiphium sandwicense)
• Description: A rare plant native to the Haleakalā crater on Maui, the silversword has silvery, spiky leaves and produces tall, red-purple flowering stalks once in its lifetime before dying.
• Best Time to See: Flowers between June and October.
3. ʻŌhiʻa Lehua (Metrosideros polymorpha)
• Description: This iconic tree of Hawaii features bright red pom-pom-like flowers. It plays a vital role in native ecosystems, particularly in volcanic regions.
• Best Time to See: Blooms year-round, with the most vibrant displays in spring.
4. Plumeria (Plumeria spp.)
• Description: Known for its fragrant, waxy flowers in colors like white, pink, and yellow, plumeria is often used in leis.
• Best Time to See: Blooms prolifically from March to October.
5. Ti Plant (Cordyline fruticosa)
• Description: A symbol of good luck, the ti plant has long, colorful leaves that can be green, red, or variegated.
• Best Time to See: Leaves are vibrant year-round, making it a perennial beauty.
6. Naupaka (Scaevola spp.)
• Description: Recognized by its unique half-circle flowers, the naupaka grows in coastal areas (naupaka kahakai) and mountainous regions (naupaka kuahiwi).
• Best Time to See: Flowers year-round, but the bloom density is higher in spring and summer.
7. Hawaiian Gardenia (Gardenia brighamii)
• Description: This critically endangered plant features small white flowers with a powerful fragrance.
• Best Time to See: Flowers in spring and early summer.
8. Bird of Paradise (Strelitzia reginae)
• Description: A tropical favorite, this plant’s striking orange and blue flowers resemble a bird in flight.
• Best Time to See: Blooms year-round, with peak flowering in winter and spring.
9. ʻIlima (Sida fallax)
• Description: A native Hawaiian shrub, ʻilima has small, delicate orange or yellow flowers and is often used in leis.
• Best Time to See: Blooms year-round, with more blossoms in warmer months.
10. Heliconia (Heliconia spp.)
• Description: Known as “lobster claw” for its brightly colored bracts, heliconia thrives in tropical climates.
• Best Time to See: Flowers throughout the year, but the brightest colors are visible in summer.
Footnote: It is strictly forbidden to remove plants from the Hawaiian Islands to preserve the delicate ecosystems and cultural heritage.