How to Prepare Crown Flower for a Traditional Hawaiian Lei- A Step-by-Step Guide

How to Prep Crown Flower for Lei

Creating a lei out of crown flower is a beautiful way to celebrate Hawaiian culture or simply add a touch of tropical flair to any occasion. Crown flower, also known as “Pua Kala,” is a popular choice for lei-making due to its vibrant colors and lush appearance. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to prep crown flower for lei.

1. Gather Your Materials

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials. You’ll need fresh crown flower stems, a pair of pruning shears or scissors, a bowl of water, a knife, and a lei string or wire.

2. Select Fresh Stems

Choose stems with full, vibrant flowers and healthy leaves. Avoid stems with wilted or brown flowers, as these may not last as long in your lei. Crown flower can be found at most floral shops or farmers’ markets, especially during the summer months.

3. Trim the Stems

Using your pruning shears or scissors, trim the stems at an angle to maximize water absorption. This helps the flowers stay fresh longer. Aim for stems that are about 1 to 2 feet long.

4. Prepare the Flower Buds

Remove any loose leaves or petals from the flower buds. This ensures that your lei will have a neat and tidy appearance. If you notice any damaged or unhealthy parts of the flower, trim them away as well.

5. Cut the Flowers

With a sharp knife, carefully cut the flowers from the stems. The ideal length for the flowers is about 2 to 3 inches. Make sure to cut at an angle to promote better water absorption.

6. Hydrate the Flowers

Place the cut flowers in a bowl of water for a few minutes to hydrate them. This helps to preserve their freshness and longevity in the lei.

7. Attach the Flowers to the Lei String

Starting from the bottom of the lei string, begin attaching the flowers to the string or wire. You can use a small piece of floral tape or a needle and thread to secure the flowers in place. Arrange the flowers in a staggered pattern to create a full and beautiful lei.

8. Trim and Shape the Lei

Once all the flowers are attached, trim any excess string or wire to ensure your lei has a clean and polished look. Adjust the arrangement of the flowers as needed to achieve your desired design.

9. Final Touches

To add a finishing touch, you can add a decorative leaf or a piece of greenery to the bottom of the lei. This will give your lei a more natural and elegant appearance.

By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to create a stunning and authentic crown flower lei. Whether you’re making a lei for a special occasion or simply want to enjoy the beauty of this tropical flower, this guide will help you prep crown flower for lei with ease. Mahalo for reading, and happy lei-making!