The Beautiful Hawaiian Hibiscus Flower
Do you know what Hawaii is famous for? Well, aside from being a top tourist destination, Hawaii is known for its beautiful hibiscus flowers. The hibiscus flower is not only a tropical symbol of love and beauty, but it is also the state flower of Hawaii. Whether you are a fan of this beautiful flower or not, there is no denying that its bright and colorful appearance can bring a smile to anyone's face. In this article, we will take a closer look at the Hawaiian hibiscus flower, its meaning, and its importance to the Hawaiian culture.
The Meaning of the Hibiscus Flower
The hibiscus flower typically symbolizes beauty, love, and feminine energy. In some cultures, it also signifies the fragility of life. However, in Hawaii, the hibiscus flower can mean much more. It is a symbol of old Hawaii and represents the welcoming spirit of the island. The hibiscus is often used to welcome visitors, and it is commonly worn behind the ear by Hawaiian women, with a placement on the left ear indicating that the woman is single, and placement on the right ear indicating that she is taken.
The Different Types of Hawaiian Hibiscus Flowers
The hibiscus flower comes in many variations, including the Hawaiian hibiscus (Hibiscus brackenridgei), which is also known as the Ma`o hau hele in native Hawaiian. The Hawaiian hibiscus flower is the official state flower of Hawaii and is often used to represent the state's colors of red, yellow, and green. Other types of hibiscus flowers that are commonly found in Hawaii include the Chinese hibiscus, also known as the rose of China, and the native hibiscus, which is often found along the coastlines of Hawaii.
The colors of the hibiscus flower also have different meanings. For example, the yellow hibiscus represents friendship, while the pink hibiscus symbolizes delicate beauty. The red hibiscus represents love and passion, and the white hibiscus represents purity and enlightenment. The orange hibiscus is often associated with joy and happiness, and the purple hibiscus is associated with royalty and luxury.
The Importance of the Hibiscus Flower in Hawaiian Culture
The hibiscus flower is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition. In ancient Hawaii, the flowers and leaves of the hibiscus plant were used to make medicine and dyes. The plant was also used in various religious ceremonies and believed to have healing powers. The hibiscus was also used to decorate the Hawaiian royal family's graves, and the flower was considered a symbol of royalty.
Today, the hibiscus flower is still used in many Hawaiian traditions. It is commonly seen in hula performances, in flower leis, and used to decorate homes, businesses, and events. Many tourists visiting Hawaii also opt for a colorful hibiscus tattoo, as a permanent reminder of their Hawaiian vacation.
In conclusion, the Hawaiian hibiscus flower is more than just a tropical symbol of love and beauty. It is a symbol deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition, representing love, welcoming spirit, friendship, and even royalty. Whether you are admiring the flowers in a garden, wearing a hibiscus lei, or getting a tattoo, the hibiscus flower will always hold a special place in your heart.
To summarize the main points of this article, the Hawaiian hibiscus flower is a beautiful and colorful symbol of love, beauty, and welcoming spirit. It is the state flower of Hawaii, symbolizes different meanings, and is deeply rooted in Hawaiian culture and tradition. The hibiscus flower is not just a pretty plant, but it holds significant importance to the Hawaiian people.