Chapter 1
Ancient origins and sacred roots
Chapter 2
Island signatures and natural emblems
Chapter 3
The art of the weave
Chapter 4
Modern revival and the spirit of Aloha
YOUR GOAL
Master of The history of lei making
Ch 2 · Island signatures and natural emblems
torito Hawaiian Lei Tradition
Polynesian voyagers brought a treasured art, Flower garlands, straight from the heart, Lei of Aloha, a symbol so true!
torito The fragrant pink Damask rose, known as lokelani, is Maui's official non-native flower emblem.
torito The rare, paper-thin yellow flowers of the ʻilima are Oahu's official lei emblem.
Fun Fact
Microscopic masterpieces: The tiny sea shells used for Niʻihau leis are so small that artisans must use special needles and incredible patience to string them.
Glossary
emblem (noun)
A symbolic design or object that represents a country, organization, or concept. In 1923, the Hawaiian Territorial Legislature passed a resolution recognizing traditional floral emblems for each island.
A symbolic design or object that represents a country, organization, or concept. In 1923, the Hawaiian Territorial Legislature passed a resolution recognizing traditional floral emblems for each island.
Quiz
Which of the following is the official lei material of Maui and the only non-native plant designated as an island emblem?
Quiz
Why are the traditional shell leis from the island of Niʻihau valued at hundreds or even thousands of dollars?
Quiz
Which island's official lei is made from the fiery red ʻōhiʻa lehua blossom, which grows directly on volcanic lava fields?
Quiz
Approximately how many delicate, paper-thin ʻilima blossoms are needed to thread a single traditional Oahu lei?
Quiz
According to Hawaiian legend, what natural event happens if you pick an ʻōhiʻa lehua flower from its tree?
Quiz
The official lei of Kauai is unique because it is made from what fragrant, spicy-scented plant part?
Quiz
Which island's official lei is made from the blossoms of the candlenut tree, also known as the pua kukui?