Crown Flower

Crown Flower Overview

Crown flower is a fragrant flowering shrub used in Hawaii lei making. Its petals roll back and reveal a small crown-like center, which gives the plant its common name. Because of this shape, crown flower leis carry royal symbolism in Hawaii.

This flower was a favorite of Queen Liliuokalani, Hawaii's last queen. That royal connection helped make the crown flower especially meaningful in lei, floral displays and cultural memory. The plant is known scientifically as Calotropis gigantea.

Flowers, Growth and Safety

Crown flower plants have thick stems and leaves, along with sweet-scented blossoms. The shrub prefers coastal areas and can grow up to about 15 feet tall when conditions are suitable. Its flowers are often used in lei because of their shape, fragrance and symbolism.

The plant also needs careful handling. Crown flower produces a milky sap that can irritate the skin, and the plant is poisonous in large quantities. Anyone handling cut stems or broken leaves should avoid touching the sap and wash their hands afterward.

In Hawaii, crown flower stands out because it connects plant beauty, lei making and royal history in one bloom. Related Hawaii lei flower pages include plumeria, pikake, tuberose and gardenia.