Maile-Style Tī Leaf & Orchid-Tuberose Twist Lei

A single strand of the dendrobium orchids with fragrant tuberose blossoms is twisted with a fresh single strand tī leaf lei.

DURABILITY
Extremely perishable, limited delivery locations.

DIMENSIONS
Width: 3 inches in diameter.
Length: About 6 feet from end to end. Drapes past the waist when worn.

CARE
Sprinkle flowers with water, keep tī leaf lei dry, and refrigerate in bag or container.

RELATED INFORMATION
The tuberose is a night-blooming plant thought to be native to Mexico. It has been cultivated in Hawaii for many years now and has become a very popular lei making flower here. Its scent is described as a complex, exotic, sweet floral.

Dendrobium orchids have been among Hawaii’s most popular plants since they were introduced from the Philippines in 1896. They have since become the single most valuable commercial flower in Hawaii. Visitors to the Hawaiian Islands will notice orchids throughout their vacation – they may receive a fresh orchid lei upon arrival, or enjoy a tropical cocktail with a fresh orchid hanging on the lip of their glass.

The tī plant was brought to Hawaii prior to 1778 by the early Polynesians from Tangaroa, Tane, Tī, and Rongo. Hawaiian Kī was considered sacred to the Hawaiian god, Lono, and to the goddess of the hula, Laka. It symbolized high rank and divine power. The leaves were used by the kahuna priests in ancient rituals as protection from evil spirits.

In old Hawaii, Kī was extremely important for practical reasons as well. It was commonly used medicinally. The leaves were wrapped around warm stones to serve as hot packs for injuries. The leaves were also boiled to make a drink, which aided in nerve and muscle relaxation, and the steam from boiled young shoots and leaves was an excellent decongestant.

Additional information