Leis from Hawaii
 

Seeing that fruits, vegetables and plants have to be inspected prior to being shipped to the mainland, is it possible to bring flower leis on the plane from Hawaii to the mainland? Are they allowed or would they confiscate them (especially if they are fresh- not dried)? Thanks.

It's been a very long time since I was in Hawaii but I seem to remember my mom bringing a lei home. She informed the clerk that she wanted to take it home and they put it in a plastic bag with a little bit of water. It was never inspected or even mentioned at the airport(s).

I always buy leis at the airport to bring home with me. No problem.......

If you stick to the standard lei that go around your neck, you won't have any problems. Cut anthuriums and orchids are also no problem.

Haku lei (the ones that go on your head) will sometimes have prohibited leaves or flowers. Ask before you buy, especially if the haku lei has a lot of unusual greens.

PS: The plural of lei is...lei.
:-) just wanted to help you sound good!

Thanks, Icuy! I didn't know that.... I knew "leis" looked strange! :-)

Don't feel bad Bonnie...many people don't know that, and even some who do say 'leis'.

Our school carnival has a haku lei booth and each year they have lei making workshops with experts. Say 'leis' in front of them and they'll smack you!

Well, no, not really, but they'll give you that look and oh, so gently correct you!!

They sell lei at the airport too!

I know that Gardenias, Jade vine (& flowers) and possibly roses in lei are forbidden to export to the mainland. Closed flowers with too many hiding places for insects.

for a good price check out the lei
stands in chinatown downtown hOnolulu.
and one really cool lei the He'e lei
that is Hay A