A Plumeria By Any Other Name...

Did you know there are more than 300 named varieties of Plumeria? In India, the Plumeria is known as the Fragipani. We often see the Singapore Plumeria adorning Kauai’s landscapes, with it’s beautiful white flower and it’s deliciously fragrant bouquet. This variety is the only Plumeria that is not deciduous - meaning it doesn’t lose all its leaves in the winter - which is why it is so popular among resort landscapes.

While the Singapore Plumeria has become somewhat indigenous to the island, there are many selections that are just as lovely and aromatic. The Yellow Plumeria is another popular Hawaiian selection. It is most commonly used for lei making because it holds up so well and is most fragrant.

During this time of the year, all types of Plumeria are in full bloom, making it a very sensuous time to visit Hawaii. To visit Hawaii and inhale the Plumeria fragrance for the first time, is an experience you can never forget. We encourage all of our clientele to experience Plumeria at its best here on our glorious island.

The Season of Graduation

Graduation season is upon us throughout the Hawaiian islands. From late May through mid- June, commencement exercises will take place all across the State. High School Graduation is especially significant to the Hawaiian culture and preparing for the big event is a family affair, which includes planning and shopping for the graduation after party -- and the perfect flower lei.

Hawaiians have a long standing tradition of giving leis to the graduates to celebrate their accomplishments. Oftentimes, the leis are piled up so high that it can be difficult to distinguish the graduates from each other. While there are hundreds of combinations to choose from, some favorite traditions include maile, orchid and ti-leaf (believed to impart good luck to the recipient).

In addition to a traditional flower lei, some families get creative with other types of leis. Some craft a “money lei“, made up of coins wrapped up in colorful netting or dollar bills folded in the shape of a fan and intertwined with color-coordinated ribbon to match the school colors. Other styles include “candy leis” or handmade ribbon leis, which make for long-lasting, graduation memento. If you are celebrating a graduation this year with a family member or special friend, be sure to recognize it with a commemorative lei.