You can use a variety of flowers for a lei, but one of the most popular options is the Dendrobium orchid. What's unique about Dendrobium orchid lei is that they tend to last longer than lei made from other flora. Why is this? If you're curious about this flower and its impressively long lifespan, let's look into what the Dendrobium orchid is, and why it takes so long to fade and wilt!
What’s a Dendrobium Orchid?
The Dendrobium orchid is a large genus of orchids with over 1,800 species. These flowers get their name from the Greek words dendron, for "tree," and bios, for "life." This name translates to "one who lives on a tree," which describes how these orchids grow in their natural habitats. They're epiphytes, which means they attach to trees and other plants without being parasitic.
These orchids come in a range of beautiful colors, including shades of purple, white, pink, and yellow. They're admired for their delicate, butterfly-like petals and elegant appearance. In many cultures, the Dendrobium orchid symbolizes love, beauty, refinement, and strength. Giving someone a Dendrobium orchid lei is a gesture of affection and admiration. It's a way to show someone you care about them deeply.
Reasons Dendrobium Orchid Lei Last So Long
So, what makes these orchids so resilient? There are several factors that contribute to their longevity, which makes them a superb flower for lei that need to withstand long events or travel.
Natural Waxy Coating
One of the standout features of the Dendrobium orchid is the natural waxy coating on its petals. This coating, called the cuticle, acts as a protective barrier. It helps the flower retain moisture by reducing water loss through transpiration. This waxy layer keeps the petals hydrated and fresh for a much longer period compared to other flowers that lack this protection.
Think of it like a natural sealant. This coating also shields the petals from environmental stressors like dry air or wind. The result is a flower that looks vibrant and feels firm to the touch, even hours after it’s been picked and strung into a lei.
Sturdy Petal Structure
The petals of a Dendrobium orchid have a sturdy physical structure. They're thicker and more robust than the petals of many other flowers, like plumeria or carnations. This structural integrity helps the flower maintain its shape and resist bruising or wilting. When you touch a Dendrobium orchid, you can feel its firmness.
This durability means the flowers can handle being strung together tightly to create a lei. They also hold up well to movement and handling throughout an event. You can wear a Dendrobium orchid lei for hours, and it will still look fresh and beautiful.
High Water Content
Dendrobium orchids naturally have a high water content stored within their cellular structure. This internal water reserve keeps the flowers hydrated from the inside out. Even after they're cut, the orchids can draw upon this stored water to stay fresh. This is a huge advantage over flowers that wilt quickly once they're separated from their water source.
The ability to self-sustain for a period gives Dendrobium orchids an edge. It allows them to remain plump and colorful long after they’ve been crafted into a lei.
Slower Rate of Ethylene Production
Ethylene is a natural plant hormone that triggers the aging process in flowers, which leads to wilting and decay. Dendrobium orchids produce ethylene at a much slower rate compared to many other floral species. This slower production delays the aging process and extends the flower’s lifespan.
Because they age more slowly, Dendrobium orchids can maintain their freshness and color for days. This quality is especially valuable for events like weddings or graduations, where you want the lei to look pristine throughout the entire celebration. It's a biological advantage that translates directly to a longer-lasting, more beautiful lei.
Great Occasions for Dendrobium Orchid Lei
The durability and beauty of Dendrobium orchid lei make them suitable for a wide range of events. They’ll stay fresh and look beautiful throughout your entire celebration. Here are a few occasions where you might want to choose a Dendrobium orchid lei over other options.
Weddings
At a wedding, you want every detail to be just right. A Dendrobium orchid lei is a beautiful accessory for the couple, their families, or the wedding party. The flowers last long enough to look just as lovely at the end of the reception as they did at the start of the ceremony. And don’t forget that Dendrobium orchids represent love and beauty! They're a meaningful symbol for a wedding, which bounds two souls in unity and happiness.
Graduations
Graduation is a milestone achievement that deserves a special celebration. Gifting a graduate a Dendrobium orchid lei is a wonderful way to honor their hard work; one of its meanings is strength, such as the strength it took for them to finish their degree. The graduate can wear the lei throughout the graduation ceremony and at any parties afterward. It's a beautiful symbol of success that will remain fresh for photos and celebrations.
Anniversaries
An orchid lei can make an anniversary dinner or celebration feel even more memorable. Gift a Dendrobium lei to your loved one as a sign of love, admiration, and appreciation. The lasting beauty of the orchids reflects the enduring nature of your relationship.
Luau and Parties
A luau or any Hawaiian-themed party is the perfect setting for a Dendrobium orchid lei. It adds an authentic touch to your attire and helps create a festive atmosphere. Since the lei stays fresh for a long time, you can wear it throughout the entire event without any worry that it’ll wilt.
A Lasting Symbol of Aloha
Why do Dendrobium orchid lei last longer than others? This boils down to this orchid's unique biological traits. If you want a lei for an event that will stay fresh, vibrant, and beautiful, consider using this flower as the main component!
At Hawaii Lei Stand, we sell beautiful, handmade Hawaiian orchid lei, including some made with Dendrobium orchids. Shop our selection and see if there's a lei that fits your needs. Whether you're shopping for a wedding, graduation, or another special occasion, we're sure to have an option that will bring a touch of island magic to your day.