Gardenia tahitensis

The Tiare flower with its sweet fragrance and beautiful white star-like petals is the emblem of Tahiti and its islands. Its jasmine perfume brings exoticism, while its sweetness gives relief and delicacy. Stitched into the hair, behind the ear, worn as necklaces or crowns, these flowers are the daily adornment of the vahines. They are used to make the famous Monoï de Tahiti, and the Umuheï, love potion of the Marquesas women.