When do Flowers Bloom in Hawaii?

Contrary to many people’s belief, Hawaii does have seasons, although they are less markedly different from each other than in other climate zones. Some of Hawaii’s flowering plants are deciduous and bloom only in summer, while others bloom year-round.

Seasons in Hawaii

The Hawaiian Islands are in the northern hemisphere, so the seasons occur at the same times of year that they do on the U.S. mainland. For example, summer begins on June 21 and runs until September 21. In winter, which begins December 21, the sun is lower and days are shorter, which contribute to slightly cooler temperatures. But frost never occurs, except at very high elevations. More types of flowers bloom in summer than in winter.

Plumeria

The plumeria tree was introduced to Hawaii in 1860 and has become common on all Islands. The flowers are often strung into leis. Some varieties are deciduous and bloom only in summer. Evergreen varieties, such as the Plumeria obtusa, produce fewer flowers in winter, according to the University of Hawaii.

Hibiscus

The many species of Hibiscus bloom primarily in early spring and summer. Hawaii has a number of native Hibiscus species, such as the yellow mao hau hele, which is the State flower. This native hibiscus can bloom sporadically, according to the University of Hawaii, but mainly blooms from February through May.