Graduation leis

What it is

A lei is a garland worn around the neck or on the head, made of flowers, leaves, seeds, shells or feathers. For graduations the common ones are purple or white orchids, fragrant tuberose, plumeria, and small white jasmine known in Hawaii as pikake. An open-ended lei of twisted ti leaves or scented maile vine is often given to men. Away from the islands, families also make leis from sweets, ribbon and folded banknotes.

Where it comes from

Polynesian voyagers brought the garland tradition to Hawaii, where leis were worn by chiefs and offered to the gods and to one another as a sign of affection and respect. In the era of steamship travel the lei became the greeting given to arriving visitors. Its use at graduations grew during the twentieth century, as schools and universities became places where the whole extended family gathered to honour one young person.

How it works

Leis are ordered ahead from lei stands and florists, or made at home the night before by stringing flowers on a long needle and thread. After the ceremony the graduate stands in a field or car park while people line up to give a lei, with a hug or a kiss on the cheek. Kept in a refrigerator in a sealed bag, most flower leis last a few days. Orchid leis last longest.

How to take part

1. Order a lei a week or more ahead in May and June, when demand is highest.
2. Keep it cool and lightly misted until the ceremony.
3. Place it over the graduate's shoulders so that it hangs evenly front and back.
4. Give it after the ceremony, not before, unless the school says otherwise.

Good manners

• Accept a lei when it is offered, and do not take it off in front of the giver.
• A closed lei is traditionally not given to a pregnant woman. An open-ended one is used instead.
• When a lei has faded, return it to the earth: hang it on a tree, bury it or scatter the flowers. Do not put it in the bin.

The flowers

PlumeriaFragrant tropical tree with waxy, five-petaled flowers in many coloursDendrobiumA vast genus of orchids found from the Himalayas to Australia and the PacificArabian jasmineA small white jasmine with a strong, sweet scent, treasured in Asia for garlands and ceremoniesCrown flowerA tall shrub with waxy white or lavender flowers and milky sap

Also part of it, and being written: Agave amica, Cordyline fruticosa.

Sources and further reading

• Lei (garland) on Wikipedia