The Significance and Meaning Behind Green and White Hawaiian Leis

The Allure and Significance of Green and White Leis

Leis are an integral part of Hawaiian culture and tradition. These gorgeous garlands made of flowers, leaves, seeds, nuts or shells hold deep meaning for Native Hawaiians. When you're gifted a lei in Hawaii, you know you're being welcomed with open arms and enveloped in the warmth of aloha.

Two of the most popular lei colors are green and white. But what is the significance behind these colors, and just how many leis is too many when visiting the islands? Let's take a closer look.

The Meaning Behind Green Leis

Green is an important color in Hawaiian culture. It represents life, land, abundance and prosperity. Wearing a green lei signals new beginnings and personal growth. It's often given at graduations, birthdays or other milestones to encourage the recipient to start fresh and embrace the road ahead.

Some of the most common flowers and plants used in green leis include leaves from the ti or ki plant, ferns, maile vines, rose leaves and ivy. These green garlands represent the lush, verdant forests and vegetation of the islands.

The Significance of White Leis

White is associated with purity, cleansing and spirituality in Hawaii. Donning a white lei indicates a clean slate and rebirth. It is often presented to someone embarking on a new life stage, like a marriage, new relationship or relocation.

White leis are traditionally made from pikake, ginger, jasmine or gardenia flowers. Their sweet fragrance and delicate petals evoke feelings of innocence and tranquility. Many Hawaiian women wear white leis for their wedding day.

Finding the Right Amount of Leis

When visiting Hawaii, you'll likely accumulate several leis during your stay. But just how many leis are too many? There's no definitive answer, as lei-giving etiquette varies.

As a tourist, you'll probably receive a welcoming lei from your hotel, rental car company or airport greeter. Throughout your trip, you may get additional leis at luaus, dinners, concerts, celebrations or as gifts. Having 3-5 leis during a 1-2 week Hawaiian vacation is common.

While appreciated, piling on too many leis can feel excessive. If you already have 2-3 leis, politely decline additional ones to avoid appearing greedy. For formal events like weddings or funerals, stick to just one lei out of respect.

Also consider the symbolism of the colors you're wearing. Mixing a graduation green lei with a romantic white lei could dilute their meanings. Try to select leis that fit the occasion.

Caring for Your Leis

To make your leis last longer, care for them properly. Avoid getting them wet, store them in the refrigerator, and give them a light mist of water if they start to wilt. Carefully untangle knots to prevent breakage. Alternatively, press your leis to preserve them forever.

When your trip ends, take a little Hawaiian spirit home by saving dried petals in sachets. Some hotels can even ship leis home for you.

The Gift of a Lei

Leis are more than just beautiful accessories in Hawaii. They are meaningful symbols of the islands' welcoming culture. Green and white leis especially embody growth, life and purity. While too many leis could seem excessive, a few thoughtfully gifted ones will provide wonderful memories of your time in paradise.

FAQs

What are the most common flowers used to make green leis?

Some of the most popular greens used in green leis include ti or ki leaves, ferns, maile vines, rose leaves and ivy.

What color lei should you wear to a wedding?

White leis are traditionally worn by Hawaiian women on their wedding day. They symbolize purity, innocence and new beginnings.

Is it rude to refuse a lei in Hawaii?

It's okay to politely decline if you already have several leis. But accepting a first lei is showing respect for the Hawaiian custom.

How can I make my leis last longer?

Avoid getting leis wet, store them in the fridge, and mist them lightly with water to prolong their lifespan. Carefully untangle knots and knots to prevent breakage.

Can I ship leis home after my Hawaii trip?

Yes, some hotels and lei shops can ship leis home for you. This allows you to keep a little Hawaiian spirit as a souvenir.