--- title: Symbolism and Meaning of Polynesian Flowers description: We offer for sale rings, necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and any other jewellery set with genuine designer black pearls. url: https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/symbolism-meaning-polynesian-flowers.html --- # Symbolism and Meaning of Polynesian Flowers Symbolism and Meaning of Polynesian Flowers ## 14 February 2025 Flowers hold a prominent place in Polynesian culture, embodying values such as beauty, love, and spirituality. They are integrated into daily life, ceremonies, and crafts, illustrating the profound harmony between Polynesians and their natural environment. ## **Symbolism and Significance of Polynesian Flowers** Each flower in Polynesia possesses a unique meaning and is employed according to well-established traditions: 1. **Tiare Tahiti** (Gardenia taitensis): The national emblem of **French Polynesia**, the tiare Tahiti is associated with purity, love, and hospitality. Worn behind the ear, it indicates romantic availability: on the left, the heart is taken; on the right, the person is single. It is also used in the production of monoï and in traditional medicine. 2. **Hibiscus** (Hibiscus rosa-sinensis): With its large colourful petals, the hibiscus symbolises beauty, femininity, and sensuality. It is commonly used to decorate hair, clothes, and homes, as well as in herbal teas. 3. Frangipani (Plumeria): Locally known as tipanier, the frangipani is appreciated for its enchanting fragrance and spiral petals. Offering this flower is a gesture of deep and sincere affection. It is used in the "making of necklaces and crowns" for ceremonies and celebrations. 4. **Bird of Paradise** (Strelitzia reginae): With its unique shape reminiscent of a bird in flight and its bright colours, this flower symbolises freedom and exoticism. It is favoured in floral arrangements and decorations. 5. **Alpinia** (Alpinia purpurata): Called opuhi in Polynesian, this majestic flower with bright red petals is often used to adorn ceremonial places and create impressive floral compositions. ## **Ceremonial and Daily Uses** Flowers play an essential role in Polynesian ceremonies: 1. **Crowns and necklaces**: Floral crowns, called "hei", and necklaces, or "lei", are crafted to welcome visitors, celebrate special events or honour guests. These floral adornments symbolise respect, love, and joy. 2. **Decorations**: During weddings, festivals and other celebrations, flowers are used to decorate venues, bringing colour and fragrance to the festivities. 3. **Daily wear**: It is common for Polynesians to "wear flowers in their hair" or behind the ear, reflecting their deep connection with nature and their culture. ## **Presence in Local Craftsmanship** Floral motifs are ubiquitous in Polynesian craftsmanship: 1. **Fabrics and tattoos**: Flowers inspire numerous patterns on traditional fabrics and tattoos, symbolising various aspects of Polynesian life and spirituality. 2. **Engravings on mother-of-pearl and wood**: Artisans incorporate floral motifs into their creations, whether on wooden objects or [**mother-of-pearl jewellery**](https://www.poemotu.com/tahitian-pearls/en/), reflecting the natural beauty of the islands. ## **Flowers in Poemotu Jewellery** The house of [**Poemotu**](https://www.poemotu.com/tahitian-pearls/en/), specialising in [**Tahitian pearl jewellery**](https://www.poemotu.com/tahitian-pearls/en/), pays homage to Polynesian flowers by creating unique pieces inspired by the local flora. Their collections include **engraved pearls** with motifs such as the tiare flower, frangipani, and hibiscus, symbolising the beauty and cultural richness of Polynesia. These creations combine the brilliance of **Tahitian pearls** with the elegance of floral designs, offering jewellery that tells a story and honours Polynesian traditions. Thus, flowers are not merely aesthetic elements in Polynesia; they reflect a rich culture, a deep history, and an intimate connection with nature. Through **Poemotu** jewellery, this floral symbolism is perpetuated and celebrated, allowing everyone to wear a piece of this ancient tradition. [![](https://www.poemotu.com/media/yootheme/cache/9e/ou%20trouve%20ton%20les%20plus%20belles%20perles%20de%20Tahiti%20-9e2f6425.png) 15 June 2026 ### Where Can You Find the Most Beautiful Tahitian Pearls? Read the article](https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/where-find-best-tahiti-pearls) [![Offer a Pearl, Offer an Island: 5 Reasons to Choose a Tahitian Pearl for Christmas](https://www.poemotu.com/media/yootheme/cache/ba/5-raisons-de-choisir-une-perle-de-tahiti-pour-noel--ba80b311.png) 07 August 2025 ### Offer a Pearl, Offer an Island: 5 Reasons to Choose a Tahitian Pearl for Christmas Read the article](https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/gift-a-pearl-gift-an-island-5-reasons-to-choose-a-tahiti-pearl-for-christmas) [![](https://www.poemotu.com/media/yootheme/cache/31/idees-pour-faire-un-noel-tahitien-311cf955.png) 07 August 2025 ### Christmas in the Islands: When Pearls Replace Snow Read the article](https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/island-christmas-pearls-instead-of-snow) [![](https://www.poemotu.com/media/yootheme/cache/15/heiva-i-tahiti-danse-tahitienne-15bb0bbd.png) 23 July 2025 ### Heiva i Tahiti: the soul of Polynesia in dance, music, and tradition Read the article](https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/heiva-tahiti-polynesian-spirit-dance-music-tradition) [![](https://www.poemotu.com/media/yootheme/cache/27/perle-tahiti-bracelet-homme-27cdab4b.png) 23 June 2025 ### Why Do Men Wear Tahitian Pearl Bracelets? Read the article](https://www.poemotu.com/en/blog-tahitian-pearls-poemotu-en/why-men-wear-tahiti-pearl-bracelets)