Blooms from Hawaii - Brief Article

Sunset, Dec, 2001 by Kirsten Whatley

At dawn, the brilliant tropical blooms that fill the farms along Maui's Hana coast burn deep orange, red, and frosted pink, like the rising sun. Lush green foliage surrounds them and sets off their dazzling hues.

But the beauty of these waxy-plumed heliconias, vivid torch gingers, heart-shaped anthuriums, elegant orchids, and spiky proteas lasts far longer than the morning. On a recent tour of the farms listed at right, I watched as these captivating blooms were harvested and gathered into bouquets for sending to the mainland. Floral gift boxes, which range from $45 for a dozen stems to more than $125 for 35 to 40 stems (plus greenery as stunning as the flowers), arrive at far-flung destinations within one to two days. Once arranged, the flowers can last for a week or more in water-filled vases.

If your holiday decorating or gift list calls for flowers from paradise, order as soon as possible to ensure delivery by Christmas (call ahead for a brochure and price list). Many farms are also open to visitors; call first for directions. All flowers and plants are approved for agricultural export.

For another way to use tropical blooms, see page 84.