Flower Guide
Hawaiian Tropical Flowers are exotic and beautiful with a long vase life. They consist of exotic heliconias, gingers, and foliage in a rainbow of sizes and shapes. The bold look of Hawaiian tropicals are perfect alone, or they can offset the graceful and delicate blossoms of traditional or temperate-zone flowers.
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CHARACTERISTICS
Quality Hawaii tropicals, grown in or near Hawaii’s rainforests, are unmatched in variety, shape, size, color and longevity. In fact tropicals range in length from six inches to six feet and in colors from the deepest orange to the richest purple, an unsurpassed selection of bold lines and vibrant colors.
- CARE
- Unpack Carefully
- Trim 1/2 to 1 inch from the end of each stem, place in clean room temperature water.
- Place the flowers in a clean vase with clean water.
- Wet flower heads and foliage daily to prevent dehydration.
- Keep flowers away from heat sources and air conditioning ducts.
- If heliconias or birds of paradise are supplied to you in a closed condition, open one or two flowers by hand from their protective bracts or spathe.
- Bird of paradise should be stored at temperatures above 45 degrees F, while gingers and heliconias should not be stored below 65 degrees F.
- To prevent gingers from bending, you’ll want to hold them vertically.
Good news. These flowers aren’t ethylene sensitive.
The bird of paradise’s tendency to produce a lot of nectar can sometimes lead to mold growth on the flower. This mold can be removed easily by washing the flower with plain warm, soapy water and rinsing with clean water.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Recut stems once. Use clean water — with or without a floral preservative.
- Keep flowers away from heat sources, air conditioning drafts, and direct sunlight.
- Clean vase when changing water. Tropicals have long vase life, up to two weeks.
In Hawai`i, the “anthurium capital of the world”, these tropical beauties are available year round. Anthurium, meaning “tail” flower, refers to the many tiny true flowers that form the yellow tail-like spadix. Also known as The Heart of Hawai`i, anthurium are perfect for any occasion.
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Seasonal
CHARACTERISTICS
Exotic Hawaiian anthurium are known for their exceptionally long vase life. Depending on the variety and season, Hawai`i’s Anthurium can retain its straight-from-the-tropics freshness for up to 2 weeks and more. They range in color from vibrant red and orange to subtle pastels. The “obake” anthurium has exquisite multicolored hues and newer tulip shaped anthurium cultivars are becoming increasingly popular. Hardy and vivid, anthurium are perfect for any occasion and specially suited for the bright lights of wedding photo sessions.
CARE AND HANDLING FOR OPTIMUM VASE LIFE
- Unpack anthurium immediately.
- Trim 1/2 inch to an inch off the base of the stem.
- Submerge entire flower for 15 minutes in 60 to 80 degree water.
- Place anthurium in a container of clean water.
- Avoid storing anthurium at temperatures lower than 55 degrees F. or in direct sunlight.
The following tips from Hawaii’s tropical flower experts will help you make the most of the astonishing anthurium.
- Purchase flowers when the spadix — the tail-like part, which is actually a protruding floral cluster —has 75 percent open miniature flowers. You’ll know the anthurium is mature when the spadix changes color from a yellowish/off-white to white and its surface becomes rougher.
- Unpack the flowers immediately — and carefully. Creasing or folding the heart-shaped part of the flower will cause the injured areas to darken.
- Trim 1/2 to an inch off the stems, being careful not to mash them. If the flowers are wilted or flaccid upon unpacking, submerge whole flowers for 10 to 15 minutes in 70 to 80 degrees F water.
- Place the flowers in a clean vase — and one that contains clean water (with or without a floral preservative). Avoid storing anthurium at temperatures lower than their ideal —55 degrees F— for any length of time. This way you’ll reduce the likelihood of a chilling injury, which causes the flower to darken.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Recut stems once.
- Use clean water – with or without a floral preservative.
- Keep flowers away from heat sources and drafts.
It’s no wonder the Protea was named after the Greek god who could change his appearance at will. That’s because this tropical treasure offers a startling diversity of shapes, sizes, hues and even textures — all merging to create more than 1,400 varieties that entice you to literally feel their color. Despite this diversity, all Protea share a common advantage — excellent keeping qualities. Hawaii’s scientists have researched Protea and hybridized many so that Hawaii’s growers can provide you with the best quality.
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CHARACTERISTICS
Protea flowers are a unique and exciting family of flowers. They include the varied protea family, which includes the large and impressive King Protea; furry, tactile Minks; the colorful and durable Leucospermum flowers that look like pincushions; Leucodendron flowers used as filler in both fresh and dried arrangements and Banksia with the corn cob flower head and serrated leaves.
CARE
- Unpack the flowers immediately.
- Trim up to 1/2 inch (off of the stems,) being careful not to mash them. Remove leaves that will be in the vase solution.
- Protea are thirsty, so you’ll want to maintain an adequate supply of clean water, preferably with a floral preservative, in, of course, a clean vase.
- The ideal storage temperature for all protea varieties is in a floral refrigerator between 36 – 50 degrees Fahrenheit.
- If you notice leaf discoloration on some of your Protea — Minks, for example — rest assured that this is a natural phenomenon and does not diminish the usability of the product. Removing leaves immediately around the flower head can enhance flower display. But keep in mind that you can obtain some control through the use of commercial floral preservatives, ideal storage temperatures, and adequate light.
You can dry Protea by hanging them upside down in a dark place. Or simply let your arrangement dry naturally.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Recut stems once.
- Use clean water — with or without a floral preservative.
- Keep flowers away from heat sources and drafts.
- Display near a window
Orchids of every variety thrive in Hawai`i’s warm tropical coast and mountain forests. Their alluring beauty makes them the most coveted flowers in the world.
Through research and innovation, orchid cultivation in Hawai`i has reached a level of excellence that sets the standard for the world.
To the florist, the Hawai`i’s orchids symbolizes much more. Not just ease of use and length of vase life, but versatility as well. The cascading sprays and delicate beauty of these, the quintessential flower of the tropics, enhance occasions from the everyday to the extravagant.
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CHARACTERISTICS
Hawaii growers offer a large selection of colorful and distinctive cut orchids that includes long full sprays of dendrobiums, elegant phalaenopsis and scented oncidiums. Stylish potted orchids make unique gifts that have incredible long lasting blossoms. Hawai`i grown orchids are available throughout the year.
CARE – CUT ORCHIDS
- To retain the dendrobium¹s radiance for up to two weeks, follow these healthful hints.
- Unpack the flowers immediately.
- Trim up to 1/2 inch off the stems.
- Place the flowers in clean cool water for 5-10 minutes. If you have received dendrobiums and they are wilted upon unpacking, simply submerge whole sprays for 10 to 15 minutes in cool tap water.
- Trim stems and change water 2 times a week.
- Keep flowers away from heat and temperatures below 45 degrees F.
- Dendrobium orchids are slightly sensitive to ethylene. To avoid ethylene buildup, you’ll want to ensure adequate ventilation and sanitary conditions. What are the ideal storage conditions for dendrobium orchids? These tropical treasures will stay their loveliest when held in water and at 50 to 55 degrees F. Holding dendrobiums for more than a week at temperatures below 45 degrees can cause blooms to discolor or drop.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Recut stems once or twice per week.
- Use clean water with or without a floral preservative.
- Keep flowers away from heat sources.
- Avoid temperatures below 45 degrees F.
Orchids of every variety thrive in Hawai`i’s warm tropical coast and mountain forests. Their alluring beauty makes them the most coveted flowers in the world.
Through research and innovation, orchid cultivation in Hawai`i has reached a level of excellence that sets the standard for the world.
To the florist, the Hawai`i’s orchids symbolizes much more. Not just ease of use and length of vase life, but versatility as well. The cascading sprays and delicate beauty of these, the quintessential flower of the tropics, enhance occasions from the everyday to the extravagant.
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CHARACTERISTICS
Hawaii growers offer a large selection of colorful and distinctive cut orchids that includes long full sprays of dendrobiums, elegant phalaenopsis and scented oncidiums. Stylish potted orchids make unique gifts that have incredible long lasting blossoms. Hawai`i grown orchids are available throughout the year.
CARE – POTTED ORCHID PLANTS
- Unpack immediately and place in brightest part of room or near a window that reaches morning or late afternoon sun.
- Orchids do well in temperatures of 65 – 85 Degrees F.
- Keep potting media moist, not wet.
- Mist orchid foliage weekly with a weak solution of water soluble fertilizer (14-14-14 or 30-10-10). Follow instructions on the label.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Light – Place plant near window with morning or late afternoon sun. Can be placed outside in summer in partial shade.
- Moisture – Many of the orchid plants from Hawaii are potted in volcanic cinders, a medium that is excellent in retaining moisture as well as providing air for the roots. Water plant twice a week as needed (do not over water).
- Replanting – When plant outgrows its pot, re-pot into larger pot. You can use fir bark, coco-chips, and rock as potting material.
- Temperature – 55 to 85 degrees F. Do not expose to extreme cold.
Bring paradise indoors with potted flowers and foliage from Hawai`i. The growers specialize in a copious collection to soften, cheer or add impact to any interior space. Hawai`i grown potted dracaenas, palms and bamboo bring spectacular form and drama to homes, restaurants, hotels and commercial buildings.
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CHARACTERISTICS
From seedlings to large specimen foliage plants, Hawai`i grown tropical potted flowers and foliage are world renowned for their exotic perfection. These plants are strong, healthy, and distinctive. They look beautiful for years and grow slowly so they won¹t outgrow their space.
CARE
- Hawai`i’s foliage plants perform well in low to medium light conditions.
- Extreme temperature changes can be harmful.
- Allow approximately the top part of the plant to dry out between watering. Consistency in watering is important.
- If leaves begin to yellow, reduce watering frequency or check for pests.
One of Hawai`i’s most enduring symbols is the flower lei. There is perhaps no better way to say “Aloha”, or convey the essence of Hawai`i, than to gently place an orchid or fragrant flower lei around the shoulders of a friend or loved one.
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CHARACTERISTICS
There is a large variety of flower leis from Hawai`i, from the durable dendrobium orchid and vanda leis, to the fragrant tuberose and plumeria leis. Also available is the long-lasting ti leaf leis which can be woven into many patterns and symbolizes protection, food and healing. Haku or head leis are popular for weddings. No matter what the occasion, Hawai`i’s Lei’s are the perfect gift.
CARE
- Unpack the leis immediately.
- Mist with cool clean water and loosely wrap with newspaper to absorb excess moisture. Some lei suppliers may wrap leis in ti leaf. Mist leis (except for tuberose) and re-wrap in ti leaf until ready to use.
- Store in cooler at 50 – 55 degrees F.
- Keep leis away from heat and temperatures below 45 degrees F.
- Fragrant leis should be used immediately.
- Orchid leis can last in in a cooler for up to 3 days, mist with cool water daily.
Lush exotic tropical foliage from Hawaii adds the essential ingredient that completes an exceptional floral design. Not only known for exquisite shapes, patterns and textures, Hawai`i¹s Foliage is extremely durable and long lasting and can be used in any type of flower arrangement.
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CHARACTERISTICS
The variety and selection of foliage from Hawai`i is extraordinary. Nowhere else will you find such an abundant selection of long-lasting greenery throughout the year, and at such a great value. Many types of foliage can last up to 3 weeks or longer with very little care.
CARE
- Unpack foliage immediately.
- Trim up to 1/2 inch off the stems.
- Place in clean water at 70 to 80 degrees F. for 10-15 minutes.
- Trim stems and change water 2 times a week.
- Avoid storing cut foliage at temperatures lower than 60 degrees F for any length of time.
TELL YOUR CUSTOMERS TO…
- Recut stems once.
- Use clean water – with or without a floral preservative.
- Keep foliage away from heat sources and drafts.