UH Mānoa’s New Tropical Protea Hybrids Cut Hawaiʻi Flower Imports

University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa’s College of Tropical Agriculture and Human Resilience (CTAHR) has developed new tropical pincushion protea hybrids that thrive at sea level, a breakthrough for Hawaiʻi’s floriculture industry. Traditionally, protea require cooler, higher elevations, limiting local production and forcing florists to import blooms from California, South Africa, and Australia. These new Leucospermum varieties, bred by CTAHR researchers, can now be grown commercially in lowland areas across the islands, reducing shipping costs, carbon footprint, and supply-chain delays. The innovation opens new revenue streams for small farms and diversified agriculture, aligning with Hawaiʻi’s goal of increasing local food and flower self-sufficiency. With year-round production potential and vibrant colors suited to tropical bouquets, the hybrids are poised to capture a share of the state’s $30 million floriculture market. Growers can expect field trials and licensing opportunities through CTAHR’s germplasm program, accelerating adoption across Maui, Oʻahu, and Hawaiʻi Island.