The attractive mini-carnation flower has a lively history and popular following in Hawaii. The Protestant Missionaries brought the carnation from New England during the mid-1800s and it was once common to see carnations growing on the side of island roads. Most carnations grown in Hawaii are cultivated on two islands: Maui and The Big Island. The approximate 40 million flower heads (annually) are blooms grown specifically for Hawaiian lei-making. Because of the many different color choices and long life span, the carnation lei is a fashionable choice among locals and mainlanders alike. The most common colors offered are red and white. In the United States, the carnation flower generally means “pride and beauty,” however, when given as a gift, different colors have assorted meanings: Light red expresses admiration, while deep red expresses a great love and affection. White expresses pure love and good luck. Purple expresses capriciousness. The pink carnation is symbolic of a mother’s undying love or friendship. The single carnation lei show glimpses of its rich green stem, while the double carnation lei is fuller—using twice the flower, and shows no green stem.
Tip: When ordering a carnation lei, you may request a white carnation lei to be “color-sprayed.” This is common during graduation for unique school colors—for example: Blue or yellow. This picture depicts mini-carnations and is small in size. If you want an ulta-thick carnation lei, please choose one of our "double" carnation leis.
Care: Sprinkle lightly with water. Refrigerate in sealed plastic bag or container.
