Hawaiian Natives

The passion vine butterfly collects nectar from the native ilima flower, whose leis were worn by Hawaiian royalty.

The white maia or pua pilo is endemic to Hawaii. It blooms after sunset and turns pink and wilts with the coming of the sun.

TULIPS from WA and OR

April 2010- Tulip Festivals in Woodburn, OR and La Conner, WA The local websites advise on the progress of the blooming season and as it gets closer, the week the flowers are expected to bloom. Tulips are planted in stages. As early blooms age, new blooms are opening. The fields and gardens are a feast for the eyes. Wow!!

Tulips from Woodburn, Oregon

It was rainy, windy, and freezing. Hope to post more later. Will also head for Skagit (skajit)Valley in Washington for their tulip festival. Just happen to be here when the tulips are starting to bloom.

The Crown of Hawaii's Native Poppy

The "pua kala" was used by ancient Hawaiians for medicinal purposes. However, unlike its cousin, it does not contain the morphine and codeine alkaloids.

RECOVERED SUNKEN TREASURE

This statue of King Kamehameha I was commissioned to honor this ruler who united the Hawaiian Islands and to commemorate the 100 year discovery of Hawaii by Captain Cook. Designed by a Boston sculptor living in Italy, the statue was shipped from Europe in 1883. Unfortunately the ship with the statue wrecked near the Falkland Islands and a second statue was commissioned with insurance money. About two years later, this original statue was discovered as rescued by Falkland islanders. The same ship captain purchased the statue, brought it to Hawaii and resold it to the government. The minor damages were repaired and the statue now stands in Kapa`au, Kohala, the birthplace of King Kamehameha. Every year on June 11th, the five Kamehameha statues are decorated: Kapa`au, Hilo, Honolulu, Maui, Washington,D.C. Can you imagine the fragrance?

Kukui Nut Flower

Surinam Cherry

Praying Mantis

Hi there!

Beargrass Flowers-Glacier National Park

A very interesting flower for first timers, near the Many Glacier Hotel.

Orchid: Cymbidium

Orchid

I'm not sure of the specific variety. The Flying Orchid?

Hawaii State Flower

It is generally known the hibiscus is Hawaii's state flower. There are so many beautiful varieties to choose from. Here is the official Hawaii state flower in its bud form. Known as the ma'o-hau-hele, it is endemic and endangered in the wild. However, it is numerous in gardens and hedges with assisted seed germination.

Good Morning