"Some have leaves that are attractive enough without blooms."
Leis Orchid A Beautiful Hawaiian Tradition
Hawaii is the source of many wonderful traditions; among the many the leis orchid flowers is one of the most beautiful ones. Legend says that the leis flower tradition started way back when Polynesians came to the island of Hawaii. In order to show their friendship and good will they made a habit of presenting the leis flower. Ever since the leis are synonymous with friendship and love.
The Leis Orchid in This Beautiful Tradition
The leis orchid is one of the flower arrangements used today for those who are loved, as basically the gift of leis flower is wishing the person well. The leis are not necessarily made out of only flowers, they can be made from seashells, feathers, bones and teeth of animals and leaves. The leis orchid is one of the latest additions to the list and is maybe one of the most attractive ones.
The leis orchid can be gifted to anyone a friend, a politician, your spouse, your boss. It is not unusual when a leis is gifted to a political person or a new friend to intertwine the Maile vine in it. The Maile vine is symbolic of peace and in ancient times one chief would present the other a Maile vine leis to seal a peaceful pact between two tribes/ settlements.
There are so many beautiful traditions tied up to the leis flower. It is said that when one leaves Hawaii, he/she should throw a leis in the water as they cross the Diamond Head; if the sea likes it, they will one day return to the island. The leis that you are gifted for your birthday are different from the leis you would be presented when you leave the island. One never gives a hala leis to anyone who leaves because this indicates death.
Otherwise the leis orchid is symbolic of friendship and good will. The unwritten rules say that one should never refuse a gift of leis. Once received, it should not be removed in front of the person who has offered it to you as this is extremely rude and it symbolizes that you do not accept their friendship. The leis orchid is worn around the neck half on the back and half in the front this is the correct way, though the newcomers usually hang it around their neck as a garland.
Such is the impact of the leis, that many times a perfect stranger will come up to you and give you a present when you wear a birthday leis. Just as Christmas time brings out the best in most people, the leis orchid also brings out the best in most people. This symbol of friendship is one of the most beautiful Hawaiian traditions.
Cymbidium Orchids Australia
Place two long vanilla bean pods (available at specialty grocery stores) into a bottle of vodka, close it back up, and put it in a dark place for a few months.
"Because these plants prefer drying out between watering, these orchids need to be planted in a pot that allows for proper draining."
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