Tī Leaf & Purple Orchid Lei

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COMPOSITION & CONSTRUCTION

Shape: Natural
Materials Used: Orchids & Tī plant
Hawaiian Name: ‘Okika & Kī
Scientific Name: Dendrobium & Cordyline terminalis
Leaves are braided together and purple orchids are intertwined to create this handsome open-ended Tī Leaf & Orchid Lei.

DIMENSIONS

Width: 2 inches in diameter.
Length: Hangs about 18 inches from neck when worn (40 inches long from end to end).

CARE

Durability: Very durable and long-lasting.
Instructions: Sprinkle orchids with water and refrigerate in bag or container. Keep tī leaf lei dry. It will stain clothing if worn wet.

RELATED INFORMATION

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.

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