The Almond Tree (Terminalia catappa)
Local names: Almond, Harman

The tropical almond is said to have come from India. It is an ornamental tree with branches spreading wide and horizontally. The leaves are broad and green and tend to change colors of yellow and red before they drop. The acidic nut is covered by a leathery green husk which turns brown as it matures. Although the nut is edible, the fruit rarely makes it to maturity as the local fruit bat population enjoys the fruit as its delicacy. In Antigua, the fruit rarely makes it to maturity as the local bat population enjoys the fruit as its delicacy.

The Aloe Plant (Aloe Vera)
Local name: Sinkle Bible

This plant grows widely throughout Antigua. The Aloe is of the lily family and is known for its many medicinal and cosmetic uses. The leaves consist of two important substances: Aloin, the yellow milky liquid under the rind of the leaf and the Aloe Gel, the gelatinous liquid within the leaf. It is a great relief for burns and is used locally as a laxative, tonic, moisturizer, detoxifier and shampoo.

The Avocado Tree (Persea edulis, Persea americana)
Local name: Pear

Most commonly known in the Caribbean as a pear, the Avocado has a yellow-green flesh with a buttery yet slightly nutty flavor. Originating from Central America and Mexico, individual varieties of this fruit may be different shapes (round to pear shaped), different skin colors (red, yellow, green, purple, maroon and black), and different skin textures (smooth to pebbly).

The Banana and Plantain Tree (Musa paradisiaca L)
Local name: Fig Tree

The banana plant is not classified as a tree in the strictest sense of the word but more so a type of herb which dies after each fruiting and produces new growth for the next generation of fruit. The edible banana is closely related to the plantain which is generally eaten boiled/fried (due to its starchy content) is said to have originated from southeastern Asia. There are several varieties of these plants which grow in Antigua, two of which are the Finger Rose and “Bugament”. The plantain is closely related to the banana and the ripe is generally eaten boiled or fried. Due to its starchy the leaves of bananas are used to wrap parcels of food for steaming, especially during the preparation of national dishes such as ducana, a type of spiced, sweet potato dumping.

The Bay Tree (Pimenta racemosa)
Local name: Christmas Bush

The West Indian Bay Tree, also known as Bay Rum Tree or Bay Berry, is native to the West Indies, Venezuela and the Guianas. The Bay is a sturdy evergreen tree growing to about 10meters, with a shiny grayish-brown trunk, glossy green aromatic leaves and small yellow-white flowers with black berries. Members of the Myrtle and Laurel families, the bay leaf is a popular culinary seasoning and is also known to be used in Bay Rum (distilling the leaves in alcohol/rum) which is a common tonic used for hair or to rub on aching joints.

The Breadfruit Tree (Artocarpus altilis)
Local name: Breadfruit Tree

This tree is thought to have originated in the South Pacific and brought to the Caribbean where it was an ideal staple food for black slaves. The tree is sometimes referred to as the “poor man’s tree” as it requires little care and can produce up to 50 years. This majestic tree grows to 25 meters, with large green leaves and is a member of the mulberry family although the fruit itself is large and round to oval shaped. The exterior is rough and is covered with small polygonal shapes. The breadfruit is starchy and can be baked, boiled, roasted and fried. The dried fruit has also been made in breadfruit chips as well as substitution for flour.

The Breadnut Tree (Artocarpus altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg
Local name: Breadnut

The so-called "breadnut" is a seeded variety of the breadfruit and should be distinguished from the true Mayan Breadnut (Brosimum alicastrum). See breadfruit

The Cassava Plant (Manihot esculenta)
Local name: Cassava, Kissava

Cassava originates from south America, specifically Brazil and Paraguay, but was introduced into the islands by the Calinago indigenous peoples. It is also known as Yuca, Tapioca and Manioc. The root is long and tapered with a waxy rough brown exterior and a white or yellowish flesh. This highly perishable food is used in sweet and savory dishes or can be dried and ground into flour. In Antigua, the famous “Bambula” is made from cassava, a tradition inherited from the Amerindians. This is prepared from the toxic "bitter" cassava variety by first washing and slicing the cassava root, grating then soaking in water, followed by pressing the juice from the contents leaving the cassava paste. The paste is then spread on a hotplate in circular portions and cooked to produce “bambula”.

The Castor Plant (Ricinus cummunis)
Local name: Castor oil bush, Five-finger bush

A native to Ethiopia, the Castor Plant has become naturalized in many tropical regions of the world. The main value of the plant lies in its seeds where the oil is extracted through cold pressing. Castor oil is an excellent laxative and has also been used in cosmetics, soaps, paints, varnishes, nylon, some motor oils and crayons. Hot castor oil massaged into the scalp is said to eliminated dandruff and lice. The large leaves which have distinctive veins and consist of about eight pointed leaflets are said to be effective as a pest repellent in agricultural areas. Care should be taken when dealing with the seed of Castor Plant as it is particularly lethal to humans and animals.

The Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera)
Local name: Coconut tree

The coconut is a member of the palm family which grows throughout the tropical regions. These trees have tall graceful grey trunks that can reach heights of up to 30 meters and they are topped by greenish-yellowish feathery pinnate leaves that can spawn up to 6 meters. The fruit/nut is referred to as the coconut and has many uses, culinary and otherwise. When still young and green, the white meat called endosperm is soft and gelatinous and is eaten as a delicious snack after drinking the water known as "coconut water" from the nut.

As the coconut matures, the nut becomes hard and the outer shell turns brown. The uses at this stage are endless and when grated can be added to sweet and savory dishes like soups, curries, cakes and pies. Coconut milk is made by grating the meat and soaking in warm water and is also a wonderful addition to culinary dishes, tradition to Asian and Indian customs. Oils can be extracted from the coconut to be used in cosmetics, soaps and hair products.

The Corn Plant (Zea mays)
Local names: corn, maize

Said to have originated in Mexico, corn has been a staple source of nourishment for the Central and South American tribes of the Aztecs, Mayans and Incas. From South America, corn was brought to the Caribbean by migrating Indians, where it has played an important role in the diet and culture of our region. Corn can be converted into syrup, oil and is also used to prepare corn meal, which as we know it is the main ingredient in the National Antiguan dish “Fungee”. We also know of the old time treat “Ashum” which is ground roasted corn mixed with some sugar. Roasted corn is also enjoyed as a tasty treat and can usually be found being prepared over coal-pots by local vendors at the side of the road. A tea made from the female parts (pistils) or corn silk is commonly used as a diuretic to treat "stoppage of water".

The Date Palm (Phoenix dactylifera)
Local names: Date tree, Negger-oil tree

This is a palm specifically known for its fruit called the date. Date Palm or "Tree of Life" is thought to have originated from Northern Africa and the Middle Eastern regions. In these areas, products of the date tree can include date honey, date sugar made from the juice of the fruit, a fermented beverage made from the sap, the palm heart, eaten in salads, and oil produced from the seeds. In the 19th century, Dr. W. Freeman introduced camels onto his estate in central Antigua and the date tree to feed the animals, however the camels did not survive.

The Dumps/Dunks Tree (Ziziphus mauritiana or Ziziphus jujube)
Local names: Dumps tree, Dumms tree

Said to have come from Southern Asia, specifically India, this tree is fast growing and drought resistant. Better known as the Indian Jujube or Chinese apple, this tree is commonly known as a Dunks Tree (Barbados) and as Dumps/Dumms Tree (Antigua). The small to medium sized tree bears a marble sized fruit, which turns from green to yellow/brown when ripe and has a small seed. When slightly under-ripe it has a crisp apple like texture and a sour/sweet taste but as the fruit matures it becomes somewhat mealy and has a pungent odor. This fruit is generally eaten fresh in the Caribbean, but has been dried and candied elsewhere and a fine liqueur is also produced.

The Eucalyptus tree (Eucalyptus spp.)
Local names: The man eucalyptus bush

The Eucalyptus is a tall, attractive, fast growing tree thought to be a native of Australia and Tasmania. The trunk is smooth and cream colored with a grayish-blue bark that peels off in strips. The leaves are greenish-blue, fragrant and sickle shaped with pronounced oil glands. Locally, the main use involves preparation of an herbal tea, which is said to be a good treatment for colds, coughs and the flu. Inhaling the vapors of the steeped leaves, bark or roots also aids in the relief of blocked nasal passages and other respiratory infections.

The Guava Tree (Psidium guajava)
Local names: Guava tree

This tree is said to have derived from the tropical Americas. It is an evergreen with wide spreading branches. It produces a seedy, fragrant fruit, ranging from round to oval shaped and has varieties of pink and white colored pulp. Guavas are used to prepare stews/preservatives, jellies, juices and cheese locally. They may be eaten raw or cooked and are an excellent source of vitamin C.

The Ginger Plant (Zingerber officinale)
Local names: Ginger

Originating in Southern China, ginger quickly spread throughout the world. Ginger is one of the oldest spices in the world and has been cultivated for some 3,500 years in Asia and the Middle East. Traditionally the use of ginger is medicinally used as a wonderful aid for any stomach ailments. Due to ginger’s aromatic flavor and spicy taste, it is used in all types of cooking to make stews, curry, candies, cookies, pies, jams and our Caribbean favorite, ginger beer.

The Mango Tree (Mangifera indica)
Local name: Mango tree

The mango tree is an evergreen which is thought to have originated from India and Malaysia. It is reported that mangoes were introduced to the West Indies in the 1700’s by explorers of that era. There are numerous varieties of mangoes found throughout the world today. Locally, some popular mango types include: the “kidney” mango (for the obvious shape), fragrant “public” mangoes, grafted “Julie” mangoes, the large “Bellyful” mangoes and “Hackett” mangoes to name a few. The immature fruit has green skin that gradually turns yellow, purple, red or combinations of the colors as the fruit ripens. The flesh is pale yellow to orange, sweet and fibrous. Ripened mangoes are eaten raw or processed into juices, jams, preservatives, dried fruit and candies. While green mangoes are enjoyed in or as chutneys, pickled and relishes. More mangoes are eaten worldwide than any other fruit.

The Neem Tree (Azadirachta indica)
Local name: Neem bush

This tree is considered an evergreen of the mahogany family and is of Indian and Burmese origin. Neem is a fast growing tree that reaches heights of 20 meters. The fruit, seeds, leaves and bark of the Neem tree contain compounds with proven antiseptic, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, anti-ulcer and anti-fungal uses. The best-established and widely recognized uses of this tree are based on the merits as a general antiseptic, insecticide, insect repellant as well as uses for dental hygiene and cosmetics. It is known as the "Village pharmacy of India". Local folk uses include the treatment of hypertension and to "cut fish poisoning" i.e. cigutera.

The Noni Plant (Morinda citrifolia)
Local names: Noni, Jumbie soursop

The Noni plant is an evergreen tree about 5 – 9 meters tall with large dark shiny leaves, small white flowers, a light brown to grey bark and an oblong fruit with a lumpy texture. The ripe fruit is edible and has such a pungent aroma that is sometimes called the “cheese fruit” or the “dog dumpling” (Barbados) because it is said to smell like a dead dog. It grows well on dry and marginal land. In the Virgin Islands it is known as the starvation apple or hog apple, suggesting that it has been used for food or feed during times of hardship. All components of the Noni plant, seeds and fruit have been linked medicinally to treat ailments like headaches, respiratory disorders, stomach, bowel and urinary difficulties to being used as a general/hair tonic and the treatment of cancer cells.

The Papaya Tree (Carica papaya)
Local names: Paw-paw, Puppaw

The papaya tree is arguably one of the most versatile trees known to man. It is said that every part of this tree can nourish the human body. Known in the Caribbean as a paw-paw, the fruit when ripe turns from green to orange, has a sweet orange pulp on the inside with numerous black seeds and is eaten fresh or made into a drink. The green fruit is cooked/steamed and is usually eaten with meat or alone as a “vegetable”. The white sap or the latex contains the enzyme papain, which digests proteins. Both leaves and immature fruit and have been used effectively as a meat tenderizer and are also an added addition to soups and stews. The latex has been used locally as to treat skin conditions and as a laundry stain remover. In some countries, the latex is collected on an industrial scale for use in tanning, brewings, medicine and cosmetics.

The Passion Fruit (Passiflora edulis)
Local name: Passion fruit

This plant is a vigorous climbing vine that requires sturdy support. It bears exquisite white and purple flowers, thought to represent the “passion of Christ” and a firm fruit with a tough, inedible exterior. When ripe (having turned from green to yellow) the inside which consists of many small seeds surrounded by a yellowish, gelatinous pulp is scooped out and is used to make drink and flavor jams, sherbet, jellies or just eaten alone. The passion plant is said to have been used by the Amerindians for its sedative effects and by African slaves to remedy headaches and sunstroke.

Pineapple (Ananas comosus)
Local name: Antiguan black pineapple

Pomegranate Tree (Punica granatum)
Local name: Pomegranate

The pomegranate is a fruit bearing shrub native to Iran, the Himalayan region of North India and the Mediterranean. It has been widely cultivated in Asia, Africa, East Indies and Malaya. The plant was introduced to California by Spanish settlers bringing it over to the western side of the world. The fruit is round and ranges between the size of an orange and a grapefruit. The skin is thick and typically colored yellowish to red. The edible part of the fruit are the numerous ruby to purple colored seeds packed with juicy, acid to sweet pulp surrounding them which is separated by compartments of membranous white tissue. The pulp is made into syrups (grenadine), juices, jellies, dressings and confectionary.

Sea Grape (Coccoloba uvifera)
Local name: sea grape

Although it is not related to the grape family, the sea grape produces clusters of edible berries that truly resemble grapes. Its leaves are broad and green with red veins which turn red to brown with age. They are round and have a heart shaped base. As the grapes mature, they turn from green to deep shades of purple. The sea grape is native to the Florida Keys, Caribbean and Central America and grows along the shores of the coast to prevent erosion or used as an ornamental plant. The fruit when ripe is sour and is used to make jams and jellies.

The Sorrel Plant (Hibiscus sabdariffa L.)
Local names: Sorrel, Jamaica roselle (elsewhere)

The sorrel plant is a member of the hibiscus, okra and cotton family. This annual herb grows erect and is sparsely branched. The stems are green or red, with green leaves and the calyxes and three to five lobed and red when matured. Sorrel is acid and has a familiar flavour similar to the cranberry. The leaves and roselle are edible and are used in salads or cookec as a side dish. When steed in water, it makes tea and a refreshing sweet beverage traditional at Christmas time. In Trinidad and Tobago the tea is brewed with beer to produce a sorrel shandy. The calyxes are also used in preservatives, jams, relishes and chutney.

The Soursop Tree (Annona muricata)
Local name: Soursop

The Soursop is related to the cherimoya family, this evergreen is indigenous to the West Indies, South and Central America, but widely grown in tropical climates. The tree produces a green, heart shaped, prickly fruit with a white fleshy pulp encased over black seeds (known as to be toxic). The fruit can be eaten alone; used in candies, sorbets and ice creams made into juices by adding a combination of milk, water, sugar and nutmeg. The leaves are said to have properties as a sedative when steeped in water, to induce sleep and is a common remedy to reduce fever when the leaves are placed directly on the body.

The Sugar-apple Tree (Annona squamosa)
Local name: Sweetsop

This small tree or shrub bears a round to oblong knobby fruit which has a white pulp with numerous shiny black seeds. The flavour is sweet and custard like and is eaten fresh or flavoured in sorbets, ice creams and juice. The origin of this fruit is unknown but the nearest native is said to have been in the Caribbean. It however grows well in tropical climates and is also a member of the cherimoya family.

Sugar Cane (Saccharum)
Local name: sugarcane

The cane plant is a course stalk of the grass family containing juice that is high in sugar. Said to have been a native of tropical Southeast Asia, it was brought over with the European colonization of the Americas, where it became the world's largest source of sugar production. Sugar cane is used to produce sugar, molasses, rum, falernum and ethanol for fuel. After processing is done, the fibrous remains or bagasse are burned for fuel but can also be used as animal feed or in the production of paper. Sugar cane when peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces are a popular road side treat sold by local vendors.

The Tamarind Tree (Tamarindus indica)
Local name: Tamarind

A native to Eastern Africa, this tropical evergreen tree grows wild throughout Sudan, Asia and the Caribbean. This massive tree can grow to heights of up to 30m with leaves holding 10-40 leaflets creating a feathery look. When matured, the tree yields a fruit which has an outer wood like shell that easily cracks and is cinnamon-brown in color. Inside the pods are an edible chocolate colored acidic or sweet pulp covered over a hard, glossy black seed. Tamarind pulp and is an important ingredient in Worcestershire and HP sauce, curries, condiments, chutneys, dips. Among other food uses it can be made into ice ream, sherbets, jam, syrup and a popular sweet snack made by extracting the pulp, rolling it in sugar and shaping into balls. It is also delicious as a refreshing beverage,

The Calabash Tree (Crescentia cujete)
Local name: Calabash

This small to medium sized tree bears an inedible fruit mainly used for ornamental purposes. The fruit is a large and oval shaped with a green, leathery exterior and is inedible. This tree is native to Central and South America as well as the West Indies. The gourd-like fruit when dried have been made into bowls, cups, ladles and maracas.

The Croton Plant (Codieaum species)
Local name: croton

There are many varieties of the Croton which have different shape and size leaves. The tropical foliage has leathery leaves which are multicolored and come in a wide range of patterns. This shrub accentuates any garden as a hedge, tree or shrub border and can also perform well as house plants. The origin of the Croton is said to have come from Malaysia and the East Pacific.

The Anthurium Plant (Anthurium andraeanum)
Local name: Anthurium, flamingo/tail flower)

This flower has decorative heart shaped waxy leaves with a spadix or “tail” that rises out of it. Colors vary from vibrant red (which is most common to the Caribbean), pink, white as well as green and lilac. Central, tropical South America and Hawaii are this plants origin.

The Mahogany Tree (Swietenia mahogani)
Local name: Mahogany

The West Indian Mahogany grows in the Caribbean and southern Florida regions. The tree is medium to large with a straight trunk and dense symmetrical crown. The leaves are pinnately compound which have a tendency to shed in the winter season and bear small inconspicuous flowers when in bloom. The inedible fruit turns from a green to brown woody looking, pear shaped pod when ripe and splits into five sections to release its seeds. Known for its uses to make furniture, it is an excellent shade tree or ornamental tree.

Bougainvillea (Bougainvillea glabra)
Local name: bougainvillea, paper flower

Bougainvillea was named after a world traveler Louis De Bougainville who discovered the flowering plant in Brazil. This large cascading shrub is used as a hedge, potted plant or can be trained to climb other trees or trellis to create a dramatic vine effect even though it does not cling. The actual flowers are small and white but are hidden by the showy vibrantly colored petals surrounding them. The paper textured petals are seen around the islands in vibrant colors of yellow, red, fuchsia, white, pink, purple and orange.

Royal Poinciana (Delonix regia)
Local name: Flamboyant, Pride of Barbados

The Flamboyant tree is native to Madagascar but was named after Phillipe de Longviliers de Poincy who introduced the plant to the Americas. Dubbed one of the most colorful trees in the world the bright green foliage and vivid red-orange flowers make this a strikingly beautiful tree. The thick trunk grows to a moderate height and then spreads widely creating an umbrella-like shape from a distance. The dense foliage has a feathery look and the tree bears large orange flowers that have four spreading petals with a fifth yellow and white erect one in the middle. It is clearly an ornamental tree and is a useful shade tree in the tropics.

Oleander (Nerium oleander L.)
Local name: Oleander

Originating from the Mediterranean region and Southwest Asia, this plant is used as a small tree or shrub. It is an evergreen that has long slim leaves and flowers which grows in clusters at the tip of the branches. When cut or broken, the stems produce a milky white sticky substance. The five petal flowers bear all year round and vary in colors of pink, white, red and yellow.

Frangipani (Plumeria)
Local name: frangipani, lei flower

This small tree or shrub is native to tropical and sub-tropical America. It is related to the Oleander and likewise produces a milky poisonous sap when cut. The plant produces flowers ranging from yellow and/or white, to pinks and reds; the former being the most common to the Caribbean. The five petal flower is highly fragrant and can last a long time without wilting once put in water. It is widely used as leis in Hawaii.

The Rubber Plant (Ficus elastica)
Local name: Rubber plant/tree, Indian rubber tree

Often kept as an ornamental indoor plant, this tree has the potential to grow to heights of 40 feet. The Rubber plant is originally from India and Malaysia. Its thick, shiny evergreen leaves are broad and it has an unusual tendency to have multiple trunks. When broken the leaves and branches bleed a sticky white substance from which rubber is made and is also an ingredient to make the ever popular “Hubba Bubba” gum. The tree is an excellent source of shade as well.

Dagger Plant (Yucca aloifolia)
Local name: Daggers, Yuccas

Widely seen throughout Antigua, these plants thrive in hot dry climates. This evergreen shrub has branched trunks and leaves 1-2 ft long with sharp needle points at the tips. In the center a single stalk towers high above with white/ecru colored flowers covering the shaft.

Queen Palm Tree (Syagrus romanoffiana)
Local names: Palm tree

Known as Cocos plumosa in the sixties and seventies, this renamed Palm is a native of Brazil, Paraguay and Northern Argentina. The Queen Palm is an elegant, single-trunked tree, grey in color and has rings from the scars of the dead leaves. It is topped with drooping, feathery green plumes which have a tendency to yellow with age and shed as the tree grows. This ornamental produces clusters of berry like fruit that turn from green to bright red-orange where seedling palms are generated. This Palm easily grows in pots as part of a home décor or as an accent to any landscapes. It is known to reach heights of 50ft.

Mexican Fan Palm (Washington robusta)
Local names: Fan Palm

Easily towering to 80ft, this stately Palm also has a single grey trunk which bulges at the base and slenders to the top of its canopy. The leaves are fan shaped, pleated and droop. As the leaves dry, they brown and rest on the trunk of the tree in layers creating a grass skirt effect under the plush green plumes. The Mexican Fan bears clusters of white flowers that mature into inedible black berries. This is a fast growing palm that is drought resistant and salt tolerant.

Windmill Palm (Trachycarpus fortunei)
Local names: Windmill palm, Chusan palm

Typically slender trunked, this Palm has brown fibers similar looking to burlap loosely arranged around the trunk. It grows to about 40ft with large palmate, flat green leaves (3ft in diameter) with segmented stiff /drooping tips. This native Chinese palm has a symmetrical crown which blooms yellow flowers in males and green in females to bear blue-black fruit.

Sago Palm (Cycas revolute)
Local names: King Sago Palm, Sago Palm

Although termed a palm, it is not a palm but a seed plant related to the Ginko trees. This popular ornamental is a decorative indoor and outdoor plant which grows very quickly. The Sago Palm boasts a symmetrical crown of glossy, green, stiff, spiny leaves from a single stout trunk. With age the trunks tend to branch, producing multiple heads of leaves. This cycad is from southern Japan.

Foxtail Palm (Wodyetia bifurcate)
Local name: Foxtail Palm

Growing naturally along the terrains of Australia, this palm is an exceptional accent to manicured landscapes of Antigua. With its slender grey trunk, the palm’s canopy consists of 8-10 stems of arched bushy leaves that take on the characteristics of a fox’s tail or bottle brush. The tree produces clusters of orange-red fruit can carry a single seed.
The Foxtail Palm reaches heights of 30ft.

Kapok Tree (Ceiba pentandra)
Local names: Silk-cotton, Ceiba, Kapok Tree

Originally native to Central and South America and the Caribbean, this majestic tree has spread to the rainforests of West Africa, Southeast Asia, Indonesian and Malay regions of the world. The Kapok tree can grow to heights of 150ft and has trunks that are smooth and grey with a complex buttressed root system stemming from its core. The branches are wide spreading and grow in horizontal tiers. This is a deciduous tree and sheds during the dry season. At this time the tree blooms pungent white to pinkish, bell-shaped flowers and woody looking green pods. Inside the pods holds brown seeds and cotton-like floss which is water repellent, resistant to rot. Some of its uses were in flotation devises in life preservers and mattresses. The trunk of the tree was valued for its color and straight grain and was used for canoes, coffins and furniture. The leaves, seeds and bark were used in remedies for fevers, dysentery and asthma. The silk-Cotton tree has been considered sacred by many indigenous peoples of the Americas (Mayans, Tainos and later African slaves) and has spiritual and folk tales attached to its history.

Bromeliads (Bromeliaceae)
Local name: Bromeliads

Bromeliads are native to the Americas and the New World and its earliest documentation was when Columbus introduced the pineapple (the most well known bromeliad) to Spain. This highly adaptable plant grows in diverse places as rainforests, deserts and elevations from sea levels. Bromeliads come in a wide variety of colorful foliage, exotic shapes and sizes. Leaves may be grey, green, maroon, spotted or striped and range in size from grass-like to wide and long. Those that flower are small but colorful. The numerous varieties of this plant vary in appearance but all share two traits; the flowers have 3 petals and the leaves have small scales called trichomes. The Aztecs, Incas, Mayans and Caribs have used bromeliads as a source of food and fiber in their culture but are now cultivated as indoor and outdoor plants.

White Cedar (Tabebuia pallida/heterophylla)
Local names: White Cedar, Pink Trumpet Tree

Distributed through the West Indies from Puerto Rico, this small to medium sized tree will grow on any soil type where moisture is available. It is a deciduous ornamental tree that has glossy green leaves and blooms flowers that have five rounded pink/lilac petals with a yellow throat. Its tough wood was used for flooring, cabinet work, furniture and boat building in the Lesser Antilles.

Yellow Cedar (Tecoma stans)
Local names: Yellow Cedar, Yellow Bells, Yellow Trumpet

Similar in shape to the White Cedar flower, this tree is more of a shrub/small tree which has bright green, pointed tipped leaves and vibrant yellow flowers. It is a fast growing tree which tends to get bushy if not pruned. The Yellow Cedar has been known to remedy digestive disorders and to treat diabetes.

Yucca Plant (Yucca filamentosa, gloriosa and aloifolia)
Local name: Yuccas

Widely seen throughout Antigua, these plants thrive in hot dry climates. This evergreen shrub has branched trunks and leaves 1-2 ft long with sharp needle points at the tips. In the center a single stalk towers high above with white/ecru colored flowers covering the shaft. The three variations of the Yucca are very similar. The uses of this plant are numerous and have been known to remedy hypertension, cholesterol, arthritic and other joint inflammation, migraines, ulcers, wounds, asthma and for the prevention of blood clots. Native Americans and other indigenous people have used the fibers of Yucca to make rope and dental floss and for hygienic purposes like soap and to treat dandruff. Yucca is also considered an edible product.

Agave (Agave Americana var ‘americana’)
Local names: Agave, Century Plant

This Agave plant originally from Mexico is commonly known as “century plant”. They are a rosette of thick, hard, fleshy leaves that are silverfish-green in color. They are broad and have a sharp point and spines along the edges of the leaves. The plant produces a single stalk of clustered yellow flowers once in its lifetime and generally dies after flowering. This Agave is found throughout Antiguan terrain as well as landscaped properties.

Agave (Agave angustifolia)
Local names: Agave

This variety of this Agave has leaves that are green with a white margin. The rosette is stiff and the sword-like leaves are narrow and grow to about 3 ft. long. Its trunk is short and low to the ground. They make a wonderful accent to landscapes and rock gardens.

Desert Rose (Adenium obesum)
Local name: Desert Rose

The Desert Rose is a native of East and South Africa and grown wild can reach heights of up to 10ft. It is a shrub that has swollen like stems and bears five petal flowers in a variety of colors (white, pinks and reds). It is a popular ornamental found in gardens or as a house plant.

Twisted Acacia (Acacia tortuosa L.)
Local name: Thorny/twisted Acacia, Cassie Tree

The Acacia grows wildly and quickly throughout Antigua. It is a deciduous shrub or tree that has feathery fine leaves and is very thorny. The trunks are thin and grow in single or multiple stems with slender branches. Mature trees tend to grow in a flat-topped canopy shape and are wonderful shade trees, used especially for cattle. Acacia was also an integral part of coal making in Antigua.

Clammy Cherry Tree (Cordia oblique)
Local names: Clammy/Clamon Cherry

The Clammy Cherry tree is said to be a native of India but grows in the South American, Mexican and Caribbean regions. It’s a small tree which grows with twisted horizontal branches and has dark green leaves. The small red fruit of this tree grows in clusters and look like a miniature sized cherry tomato. They have a sticky consistency and are edible but if you ask the older generation, it was used as a common substitute for the popular Elmer’s Glue. Its seeds are dispersed by the local bats.

Black Willow (Capparis cynophallophora L.)
Local names: Jamaica Caper

This plant is considered a shrub. It has glossy dark green leaves and small petal flowers with several white and purple slender stamens coming from it. Seed pods similar to a string bean but brown in color, are produced from the flowers. When these pods ripen, they burst open to reveal a spectacular red-orange waxy inside with similar colored seeds. It is an enticing attraction for birds which help in the pollination process.

Whitewood Tree ( Bucida buceras)
Local name: Whitewood tree, Black Olive Tree

This is a native West Indian medium sized evergreen tree that grows as high as 50ft. The young tree has a smooth brown to grey colored trunk, but as it matures develops a rough bark. The leaves are bluish-green and alternately placed on its branches. When in bloom, the Whitewood Tree produces creamy colored clusters of small bell-shaped flowers and a black oval inedible fruit. The fruits have a tendency to stain and the roots of this tree are destructive to walkways or anything concrete.

Cotton Plant (Gossypium)
Local name: Cotton

There are many species of the Gossypium that is of tropical origin. It is a shrubby plant that has three-lobed pointed leaves and beautiful flowers (vary in color depending on the genus) that dry and expose seeds in each capsule. Each seed is surrounded by fibrous lint (cotton) which is white or cream colored. Cotton has a reputation of its own and is commonly used in thread and clothes.

Guinep Tree (Melicoccus bijugatus)
Local names: Guinep, Ackee, Chenet

Cultivated throughout the Caribbean, this medium to large tree is a native of Central to South America. The Guinep tree has oblong bright green leaves and bears greenish-white fragrant flowers. The fruit has a green outer skin that is oval and grows in bunches. Inside the skin you will find a salmon colored pulp surrounded by a hard white seed. The pulp is sucked off the seed and the seed is discarded. Take care not to get it on your clothes as its permanent stain would be a reminder of how juicy this fruit is!

Lignum Vitae (Guaiacum officinale)
Local name: Lignum vitae

This evergreen tree is indigenous to the West Indies and grows up to 30ft. The trunk is brownish –green in color and grows multi-trunked and twisted. The tree blooms small blue flowers which develop into orange fruits. The resin of this tree has been used as anti-inflammatory agents, remedies for sore throats, gout, as a laxative and to treat syphilis.

Wild Fig Tree (Ficus citrifolia)
Local names: Wild Fig, Shortleaf Fig, Wild Banyantree

Considered a medium to large tree the Wild Fig tends to grow with a buttressed root system. This unusual tree produces several aerial roots from its branches and grows downwards to affix itself back into the ground or around the original trunk. The leaves are light green and about 5 inches long. The flowers are inconspicuous and are born inside the fig/berries. When ripe the berries turn from green to purple.

Monkey-No-Climb (Euphorbia Lactea)
Local names: Monkey-No-Climb, Candelabra cactus, Dragon Bones

This is a poisonous plant originating from India and was used medicinally to treat rheumatism. The cactus-like shrub or small tree is ornamental and can be used as a hedge. It is identified as leafless with fleshy green stems and branches that are 3 sided with pointy black spines. When cut, milky white latex runs from the stems and is an extreme irritant to the digestive system, skin, mouth and eyes.

Morning Glory (Ipomoea fistulosa)
Local names: Morning Glory, Moonflower

Morning Glory is a member of the sweet potato family and flourishes in dry climates. The shrub is multi-trunked and grows to heights of 8 feet. The leaves are green and heart shaped and they produce a beautiful pink trumpet flowers that open in the morning, hence its name.

Turk’s Head Cactus (Melocactus intortus)
Local Name: Turk’s Head Cactus

There are various types of Melocactus that grow throughout the West Indies, South America and Mexico. This variety is global to barrel shaped and extremely spiny. The bright red bulb or fruit as it is called grows from the top of green plant, where pink flowers are produced. Turk’s Head is decorative and is a wonderful accent to rock gardens.

Organ pipe/Dildo Cactus (Cephalocereus nobilis)
Local names: Organ pipe or Dildo Cactus

This cylinder shaped cactus grows in upright columns to heights of 8-10 feet. They tend to branch out into several limbs from the base of the plant creating the look of the pipes of an organ. They are greenish-grey in color and are also very spiny. They are slow growing and are commonly seen throughout landscaped and wild terrains of Antigua.

Giant Milkweed (Calotropis procera)
Local names: Giant Milkweed, Sodom Apple

This evergreen is a soft wooded shrub that grows on sandy soil. Its stems, branches and leaves are sparse. The leaves are light to dark green and broad with heart shaped base and pointed tips. They also have peach fuzz hair on the surface of the leaves that easily rub off. The Milkweed produces clusters of small white with purple tipped flowers and pale greed seed pods. When ripe the pods split open to reveal tufts of white floss and brown seeds. The milky white latex that comes from the stems and branches when broken is poisonous but is also useful in remedies for boils, wounds and skin problems in humans as well as parasitic infections in animals.

Old Maid (Catharanthus roseus)
Local names: Old Maid, Madagascar/Rose/Cape Periwinkle

Native to Madagascar, this plant is an evergreen perennial that is popular as a garden flower bed. Old Maid has glossy green leaves and bears rounded five-petaled flowers usually pink in color but comes in a range of red, white and purple also. Although this plant produces a poisonous milky sap, it is known to treat diabetes (in Jamaica), lung infections, colds and coughs, eye irritations, stings as well as to act as an astringent and diuretic.

Plumbago (Plumbago auriculata)
Local names: Plumbago, Cape/Blue Plumbago

This sturdy evergreen is a shrub with vine-like qualities that originates from South Africa. The bushy small leafed plant bears tubular flowers that come in varying shades of blues to white. They are great bed flowers as well as garden hedges and are extremely resilient and easy to grow.

Cinnamon Tree (Canella winterana)
Local names: Wild/Winter Cinnamon

Not to be confused with what we know as the spice, this small tree (with a similar aromatic scent) is an evergreen native to tropical Americas. The trunk, which has a white bark grows erect and is topped with glossy oval shaped leaves, purple and white flowers when in bloom and small red to purple berries that cluster at the tips of the branches. The berries have the same effect as black pepper when dried and crushed. The bark and leaves have medicinal uses to aid digestion, headaches, sore throats, rheumatism to name a few as well as therapeutic purposes in teas and baths.