Introduced to Hawai'i from China, this form of jasmine was named by Princess Ka'iulani for the peacocks which roamed her pikake -filled garden. Bridal leis are often woven together with maile , to symbolize life, strength and unity through growth. Maile , a fragrant vine that grows in Hawai'i's upland forests, may be the oldest and favorite growing material used by early Hawaiians. Unlike the lei niho palaoa , maile was the lei of all the people and was associated with worship of the gods, particularly of Laka, the goddess of dance. Given in olden times as a peace offering on the field of battle, maile today is frequently chosen for graduations and is used in ceremonies to bless new buildings.
Carnations are also a favorite choice for graduations.
Plumeria colors range from white to pink, dark red and even striped, though the common yellow is considered by many to be superior for lei-making. The ginger, or awapuhi , lei captures the ephemeral essence of all floral leis. So fragile are these blossoms that, before refrigeration was available, buds could only be picked in the evening. Ginger became known as a lei for evening wear, perfuming wearers and inviting romance. They argued that the Hawaiian does not throw away a token of love.