Plants of Paradise
Like many tropical locations, Hawaii is a plant-lover’s paradise. Over 1,400 plants are native to these islands and a staggering 90% of them are endemic. In other words, when you live on the Big Island, you can create some luxury landscaping exclusive to Hawaii. Ready to join the plants of paradise? Let’s stop and smell the hibiscus.
The State Flower
Although the flower is not originally native to the Hawaiian islands, the yellow Hawaiian hibiscus is the official flower of the Aloha State. Since its arrival on the island, five species have become native. And the Hawaiian hibiscus is endemic to the archipelago.
If you see someone wearing a hibiscus flower behind their ear, pay attention to which side it’s on. Wearing the flower behind the left ear indicates that they are single; behind the right ear means they’re already taken!
In addition to adding a splash of color, the delicate flavors of hibiscus flowers offer many culinary uses. You’ll find hibiscus tea across the Big Island. I also recommend hiring a private chef who will turn these already-gorgeous flowers into incredible, edible works of art.
Leis for Days
The lei is a symbol of Hawaiian heritage and hospitality. It also showcases some of the lovely flowers that grow wild on the islands. Orchid petals and plumeria blossoms are popular. You’ll also frequently see carnations and Arabian Jasmine featured on leis.
Traditionally, opposing chiefs would offer each other leis as part of a peace agreement. Nowadays, islanders give leis to visitors as a warm welcome.
A few local tips. Never refuse a lei when it is offered to you. And don’t remove the lei in the presence of the person who gifted it to you.
The Real Houseplants of Hawaii
Leave your pot-bound pothos on the mainland. In Hawaii, these houseplant favorites grow in the wild. That’s sort of selling them short. In the wild, a Hawaiian pothos vine can grow up to 65 feet tall. Leaves can measure over two feet.
Monstera deliciosa, better known as the swiss cheese plant, will also grow to staggering proportions in the Hawaiian climate. It can climb up to 100 feet with leaves spanning 3 feet wide. When left to grow beyond the confines of a pot, this plant will produce edible fruit that makes a perfect addition to any tropical fruit salad.
Slightly smaller, though no less spectacular, is the bird of paradise plant. The blooms of this plant feature vibrant petals that mimic the plumage of a tropical bird. Birds of paradise are beautiful in pots but imagine having a whole bush of these beauties.
Luxury Leaves
I’m not saying you can’t keep your houseplant collection when you move to the Big Island. I’m just saying you won’t need to. Lanais were basically made to showcase luxury leaves. And I can help you find plenty of outdoor space to make your landscaping dreams a reality.
Contact me when you’re ready to put down new roots.
Aloha, and welcome to Hawaii.