Hawaiian flowers are not just beautiful. They are rare, protected, and closely associated with the fragile ecosystem of the islands. Once you see these beautiful flowers, the question naturally arises: Can I take them home? The answer is yes, you can! But only if you follow the rules. Transporting flowers from Hawaii to the mainland United States is carefully regulated. This article explains the existing rules and regulations and provides some tips to improve the chances to keep your flowers fresh.
For any Hawaiian flowers you wish to take to the Mainland, the best place to start is your home state’s department of agriculture, to see if the specific flower you want is allowed in. Besides, don’t forget to check if your floral arrangement is made of products allowed to leave Hawaii.
Why the USDA Regulates Flowers From Hawaii
Flowers are living things. They carry stories, scent, and sometimes risk. Introducing even a single insect to the mainland could threaten farms, home gardens, and entire ecosystems. That is why at the airport, agricultural inspectors will check your flowers to make sure they aren't made from any prohibited materials, and don’t contain dangerous invasive pests or diseases.
Flowers Allowed to Bring From Hawaii
Many of Hawaii’s most popular flowers are allowed to travel when sourced correctly and inspected:
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Orchids, especially dendrobium and cymbidium
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Protea
These flowers must be clean, free of insects, soil, and seed pods. Commercially grown flowers purchased from licensed florists are typically pre-treated or pre-inspected, which makes approval far more likely.
Flowers Are Not Allowed to Bring From Hawaii
However, some flowers will not pass the inspection. This list includes the following items:
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Citrus plants or flowers;
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Vines;
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Fruit including pandanus fruit;
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Berries;
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Fresh flowers of jade vine;
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Mauna Loa;
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Potted plants or anything containing soil;
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Rooted cuttings;
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Flowers with seed pods;
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Untreated moss or foliage.
Please note that native Hawaii plants are protected by law and cannot leave the islands under any circumstances. Also wild picked flowers are illegal to transport.
Why Buying From Certified Florists Matters
To make the process of agriculture inspection easier, choose certified florists to buy your bouquet from. Licensed Hawaiian florists work under USDA and Hawaii Department of Agriculture guidelines. It means that flowers are grown, treated, and packaged in a way that meets all the requirements.
This is not just about convenience. It is about protecting ecosystems on both sides of the ocean. Buying flowers from roadside stands or unlicensed sellers often leads to confiscation and heartbreak at the airport.
Best Practices When Traveling with Hawaii’s Flowers
If you decide to bring a piece of Hawaii home with you, buy flowers just before your trip, so they are fresh. Choose flowers with strong stems and partially closed buds. Keep them in a cool, shaded place and lightly moisten them by wrapping the stems in damp paper. It is not recommended to put flowers in water during the flight. Heat and moisture are the quickest ways to shorten their life.
Also, make sure your flowers are packed properly. Professional flower boxes are ideal, as they protect the petals, allow air circulation, and maintain shape. Another option is to wrap the flowers in breathable paper or reinforced sleeves.
It's easy to fall in love with Hawaii's nature. Tropical flowers on your table are a beautiful and fragrant reminder of your visit to the islands.
The tips above can help travelers take a little piece of paradise home with them a little more easily.
