2017 ASHS Annual Conference

The first orchids made their way to Hawaii around the mid-1800s via Asia, and by the end of the 19th century, wealthy individuals and even Hawaiian royalty maintained orchid collections. Soon, the average Hawaii resident learned they could grow orchids with little effort in Hawaii’s perfect climate. Since that time, Hawaii has enjoyed a long and glorious history with orchids, including research recognized internationally for its excellence, commercial cultivation with international sales and the development of hundreds of award winning cultivars by hobbyist breeders. Almost every community in Hawaii has an orchid society. This presentation will highlight people, events and accomplishments of significance in the history of orchids in Hawaii.