The Orchid Isle Project

Vanda Miss Joaquim was grown by the millions on the island of Hawaii, giving it the nickname "The Orchid Isle"

Hilo Orchid Society has launched a project to help the island of Hawaii more fully live up to its nickname, the Orchid Isle.  The nickname was given to the island after World War II, when whole fields were devoted to growing Vandas, and millions of blooms were exported.  Today, although orchid growing is still an important industry, and orchids grow easily outdoors in our perfect climate, the sense that orchids make this island a special place has faded.

Our goal is to rekindle the appreciation of orchids by placing orchids in public places such as parks and airports, as well as encouraging businesses and homeowners to place orchids on their properties where passers-by can see them, so that everywhere you go on the island you will see orchids.

To accomplish our goal, we are reaching out to government, businesses, other orchid societies on the island, and the public.  Together, we can make it happen.  

To date the project has placed orchids on both the East and West sides of the Orchid Isle,  along the Hilo bayfront shops, in public parks, and in hospitals and businesses.