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The incomparable and diverse range of flowers found on the Cook Islands are a central part of local culture. Blooms of virtually every shape and color are used daily for personal adornment and to grace homes and buildings. Cook island women are taught young how to weave the intricate patterns of the flowers they wear and their speedy dexterity is wonderful to watch.
Upon arrival, visitors are customarily presented with a garland of flowers such as Tiare Maori (gardenia - the national flower) to wear around their necks. Another spectacular native flower is the hibiscus, referred to by the Cook Islanders as "Kaute." The wild hibiscus bark is used to create the amazing dancing costumes of the islanders, who are regarded as world leaders.
The spectacular beauty of the "flamboyant," or "flame tree" is legendary. While primarily a native of South America, in their hime land they are much smaller than the magnificent specimens found in the Cook Islands.These striking, widely photographed crimson trees provide colorful landscaping throughout the islands.
Several plants and flowers on the Cook Islands are not just beautiful to look at. Many have traditional medicinal uses, most notably the Noni plant whose roots and leaves are used by herbalists in treating a wide array of ailments, including diabetes, high blood pressure, arthritis, and more. Noni juice is now being mass cultivated on Rarotonga for export around the world and is regarded as natures wonder-product for the health properties it delivers.
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