Hawaii’s state flower is the yellow hibiscus, specifically the Hibiscus brackenridgei. Here are some quick facts this beauty:
- The Hibiscus brackenridgei is native to Hawaii. Sadly, this Hawaiian endemic plant is endangered. So, do take tread lightly near them when you visit Hawaii.
- This hibiscus can grow up to 30 feet tall, though it’s most often a 3 to 15 foot tall shrub.
- Blooming season is spring through early summer with occasional flowers during the rest of the year.
- The flowers are 4 to 6 inches in diameter.
- It wasn’t until 1988 that Hawaii officially addressed the issue of selecting a state flower.
Sources and additional reading:
- University of Hawaii at Manoa – native plant database.
- NetState – Hawaii’s history of adopting a state flower.
Photo credit: Joel Abroad via Flickr and Creative Commons.
——–
In case you’ve just joined us, this post is part of a series of 50 facts about the 50th state in celebration of Hawaii’s 50 years of statehood. For the 50 days leading up to the official statehood day, August 21st, I’m posting a fact about Hawaii each day. To see all the posts in this series, click on this link for 50 facts about Hawaii. We’re just over half way through!
Sheila Beal
3 comments
We were quizzed by a shop keeper at Whalers Village on Maui as to whether the state flower was the red or yellow hibiscus.
Sadly, we guessed wrong. 🙁
I think the nickname of this hibiscus is “Hula Girl” – I will double check but I think that’s it. Cute ya?
@ Kris – ah, but now you’re a Hawaii expert. You’ll never miss that one again. 🙂
@ AMB – That would be interesting to find out. Thanks!