How to Grow Hawaiian Flowers

Anyone who has been to Hawaii has certainly noticed the proliferation of beautiful and exotic plants growing throughout the island chain. While Hawaiians enjoy one of the most ideal climates for plant growth in the world, there is no reason why a gardener with a little bit of resolve cannot enjoy a fragrant Frangipani tree, even if she lives in Minnesota!

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

1. 
    
   Bird of Paradise

   Those who live in the warmest parts of the country, the southern regions of Florida, California and Texas, will have the most success in locating and growing their favorite Hawaiian plants outdoors. The local nursery will most likely carry a wide variety of plants that you can be sure will succeed in your yard, with just a little extra care. Some commonly found varieties include Banana, Bird of Paradise, Palm, Allamanda, Jasmine, Copper Leaf, Bamboo, Hibiscus, Elephant Ear, Anthurium and Calla. Tropicals that flourish in Hawaii's similar climate may nevertheless need a little extra help to be successful in these areas. Diseases and pests will vary from region to region, as will soil content and quality. Increased irrigation may be needed to help the plants thorough the hottest parts of the summer. You would do best to make friends with some of the nursery staff who can give advice on getting your plant to thrive.

2. 
    
   Catalpa

   If you live in colder climes, however, don't worry, there are many varieties of tropical plants that are found in Hawaii AND are tolerant of cold. Most tropicals will need to be overwintered indoors, but a few are hardier than you may expect. Cold tolerant plants with a tropical flair include: the Empress Tree, Catalpa, Angelica, Udo, Japanese Coltsfoot, Bear's Breech, Hercules' Club, Chinese Parasol, Mimosa, Fig, and some varieties of Palm. If you have your heart set on a particular plant that isn't considered suitable for your area, try growing indoors near a sunny location or with lights. Tropicals grown indoors will need much more care and have a higher failure rate, but it certainly can be done. Also, new strains are being developed all the time, so do a little research to see if your dream plant has a cold tolerant variety. Ask around. You may find that contrary to all advice, your neighbor has successfully grown Papayas throughout the Michigan winter through some special method.

3. 
    
   Anthurium

   Locating Hawaiian plants may the biggest challenge to northern gardeners as few nurseries are likely to carry them. If you happen to be on vacation in Hawaii, there are a plethora of stores that have root cuttings, seedlings and seeds for sale. In most cases, it is perfectly legal to bring these plants home with you, just be sure to check the list of restricted states on the package before you buy. For those not lucky enough to be on vacation, search on line or in catalogs for already established plants (seeds will usually be too difficult to get established).

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware that your plants will not grow as quickly or to as great a size as they do in Hawaii.
• Before planting out of doors, find out if your plant is considered to be a pest in your area by checking with your county extension office.
• If you have small children or animals, find out if your plants are poisonous if ingested, many tropicals are.
• While there is a staggering variety of tropicals available online, there are alot of ways to be disappointed. Read the product description carefully to be sure of what you are getting and always check the seller's feedback and reputation before buying.