Spread Holiday Cheer with Living Gifts This Season

As the festive season approaches, many individuals are seeking meaningful ways to celebrate. With Christmas on December 25, Hanukkah starting on December 14, and Kwanzaa commencing on December 26, the holiday spirit is palpable. This time of year not only invites joy and togetherness but also serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by many around the globe. A moment of reflection and goodwill has never been more critical.

In regions like Hawaii, the arrival of Christmas is marked by unique traditions. Although relatively new compared to the celebrations in Europe and America, Christmas became an official holiday in Hawaii when King Kamehameha IV and Queen Emma declared it so in 1862. The island’s festive atmosphere has evolved, integrating various cultural influences, as exemplified by the popular song “Mele Kalikimaka,” which was composed in 1949.

Living gifts, particularly tropical plants, have emerged as a distinctive way to express love during the holidays. As gardens prepare for the longer days ahead, many nurseries and garden shops in Hawaii are stocked with vibrant options such as potted poinsettias, bougainvillea, hibiscus, bromeliads, and orchids. These living gifts not only bring life and color to homes but also symbolize hope and renewal during this season.

Choosing plants as gifts allows for creativity in presentation. From imaginative containers to decorative wrappings, thoughtful touches can enhance the significance of these gifts. Unlike traditional sweets and snacks, plants offer a lasting reminder of affection and are a healthier option.

Several varieties of hibiscus make excellent gifts, including the common Chinese hibiscus with its striking red flowers. The gardenia, known for its fragrant white blooms, and the ever-blooming jatropha tree are also ideal choices. The jatropha, which can reach a height of 15 feet, is suitable for both garden landscapes and container planting on patios.

For those looking for unique options, the false aralia (Dizygotheca elegantissima) and silver buttonwood, known for its blue-gray foliage, stand out as distinctive gifts. The snow queen hibiscus and white poinsettia (Euphorbia leucocephala), also known as snow on the mountain, are particularly festive during this time and are currently in full bloom in Kona.

Palms also represent excellent living gifts. The pygmy date palm and various chamaedorea species are compact options that can thrive in small spaces. Other noteworthy palms include the latania palm, recognized for its vibrant red and green foliage, and the bismarckia nobilis, which features striking blue-gray leaves as it matures.

Not to be overlooked, blooming orchids and anthuriums can add elegance to any holiday gathering. The Norfolk Island pine is also a popular living Christmas tree option. This versatile plant can be kept indoors throughout the festivities and later planted outside or maintained in a pot for several years.

While Christmas in tropical climates has its challenges, the allure of the surf and beach remains a significant draw. Some individuals use the holidays to catch up on gardening projects, while others long for the traditional winter experiences of snow and frost. For those wishing to experience a taste of winter, a trip to Maunakea has become a popular choice, especially after recent snowfall.

The essence of Christmas transcends the commercial aspects often associated with the holiday. Its true significance lies in the act of giving and sharing. While some may criticize the holiday for becoming overly commercialized, gifts that stem from a loving heart continue to hold the most value.

Reflecting on the origins of certain Christmas customs, many traditions, such as the use of evergreen trees, have deep historical roots. The Christmas tree tradition is believed to have started in Germany during the 8th century, where St. Boniface led tree-worshipping individuals to recognize the significance of the evergreen fir, a symbol of life during winter’s darkest days.

As the holiday season unfolds, it is essential to remember what truly matters: love and connection with others. In Hawaii, this spirit of aloha encapsulates the heart of the celebration. As we gather with loved ones, let us embrace the gift of life, love, and generosity. May this festive season bring blessings to all, and as the local saying goes, “Mele Kalikimaka e hauoli makahiki hou!”