Wehewehe Wikiwiki Hawaiian language dictionaries

1. n., The Arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac), introduced from India, a shrub or climber, with rounded, dark-green leaves and small, white, very fragrant flowers used for leis. Since Princess Kaʻiulani was fond of both these flowers and her peacocks (pīkake), the same name was given the flowers.

• References:
  • Neal 680.

2. n., Peacock, peafowl (Pavo cristata), said to have been introduced to Hawaiʻi about 1860. They are wild on Niʻihau and at Waiʻanae, Oʻahu.

Arabian jasmine (Jasminum sambac), a fragrant-flowered shrub with white, tubular flowers. The double flowers resemble small, white roses and are used in leis. The flowers were called pīkake the name for peacock because Princess Kaʻiulani was fond of both. She had white peacocks in her gardens in Waikīkī. The flower is used as a design on quilts and its scent is extracted for perfume. (NEAL 680.)