Plants of Polynesia - Asian American & Pacific Islander Heritage Month Workshop

Saturday, May 13, 12:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. 

Location: Marie Selby Botanical Gardens Downtown Sarasota Campus’ Event Center Terrace 

Class Fee: Members $29/Non-members $36    

Class Size: 30 Students 

Instructor: Kalina, from the Tampa Bay Waikiki Dancers & Musicians Cultural Group 

Materials Fee: All supplies are included in class fee. Gardening gloves recommended. 

To celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, take a virtual trip to the Indo-Pacific by immersing yourself in the botanical heritage of island culture. From palm fronds to plumeria, participants will explore a range of tropical flora. An educational lecture by an indigenous culture expert will inform about the plants’ significance to Pacific Island nations. 

After the discussion, guests will engage in a hands-on “lei” making activity using the native Hawaiian flora featured in the lesson. Design a beautiful “lei” in this workshop that will satisfy both plant and art lovers in a fun and interactive activity.  

All plants and supplies are provided for the demos. Students take home the botanical art prepared in class. Open to all ages/skill levels. General admission is included in the course fee. 

All materials for this horticulture class are covered in the tuition. You will be working with plants, wire, and gardening tools; feel free to bring a favorite pair of gardening gloves, and/or safety glasses. 

Please meet outside the Payne Mansion's iron gate around 10:20 to be checked-in for your 10:30 start time. The best address to use as reference is 800 S Palm Ave., Sarasota, FL 34236. The parking lot is located across the street from the provided address.