Famous Flowers Symbols in the Polynesian Culture You Need To Know
Posted by Maris on 2nd Aug 2023
Tiare: (Tahitian), flower.
Tiare Tahiti (gardenia tahitensis) is the emblem flower of Tahiti, usually simply known as tiare, literally “flower”.
Flowers often appear in Polynesian designs, mainly hibiscus flowers, frangipani and tiare. They usually represent beauty, femininity and joy, but they also represent new bloomings, children.
Tiare
The flower of tiare is the national flower of French Polynesia, and a symbol for Ori Tahiti, the traditional Tahitian dance.
It symbolizes beauty, grace, sensuality.
Tiare flowers are often used to prepare the typical garlands worn around the neck and gifted to visitors, called ei or lei in Hawaii, and it’s therefore a symbol for hospitality too.
Hibiscus
The flower of hibiscus is a constant presence in Polynesian modern tattoos, especially for women.
It’s the emblem flower of Hawaii and it symbolizes beauty, femininity, and passion
It’s also a symbol of the “island vibe”, used to represent the “carpe diem” philosophy of living every moment to its fullest.
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Frangipani, or plumeria
Frangipani flowers (plumerias) symbolize beauty, love, and they are often used to represent children.
They are also a symbol of protection and shelter.
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Puawananga
Puawananga (clematis paniculata), the flower of knowledge, was used for treating some illnesses as migraines and it’s associated to healing.
Pandanus
The leaves of the pandanus were used for all sorts of weaving, from mats to ropes, sails, baskets- the male flower symbolizes tradition, ancestors, union with nature, and prosperity.
Fijian tattoos often include flowers in several forms, and they are a predominant element in prints and decorated fabrics all over Polynesia.