Aloalo

Aloalo is the Hawaiian name for the Hibiscus flower. It is also known as Pua aloalo with specific species identified under specific names. In the Hawaiian language, one of the meanings of aloalo is "esteemed." In 1923, Aloalo became the flower of the Territory of Hawai'i. There are some species which are endemic to Hawai'i and others that are from tropical and subtropical regions of the Old and New Worlds.

Tropical Aloalo are partly woody shrubs with five-petaled blossoms that come in a multitude of varieties and different colors. At the end of the upright stamen are filaments coated with pollen.The evergreen leaves have serrated edges. The plants thrive best in full sun and well-drained soil.

In 1998, Hawai'i designated the yellow hibiscus Pua ma‘o hau hele (Hibiscus brackenridgei) as the official state flower.

Traditional Cultural and Medicinal Uses

• Many species of Aloalo are used for cordage, paper, and textiles
• Some species may be used for food, medicine or dyes