By The Dominican Republic is a gem in the Caribbean islands, boasting a lush and natural environment that has become popular among travelers and nature enthusiasts. The country’s colorful flora is a delight to explore, with over 10,000 plant species, including many native, naturalized, and protected ones. From the different types of houseplants to the most spotted trees, the Dominican Republic offers an incredible opportunity to discover a world of beautiful flowers.
Among the most stunning types of flowers in the Dominican Republic are the Rosa de Bayahibe, a small and very difficult to find flower that serves as a natural reminder of the country’s pastora. This endemic flower is protected and often referred to as the national flower. Another native flower is the Spiralflag, a trumpet-like flower that gets its name from its shape and the way its petals spiral around its stem.
There are times during the year when the country’s flowers show only one or two colors, while other times many different colors are present. One of the most unique flowers in the Dominican Republic is the Brassia, a type of orchid that has a soft flesh and smells like ripe fruits. The Quisqueyanos use this flower as part of religious ceremonies and it has become a symbol of the country.
The largest flower is the Rose of Samaná, which grows upon trees in the woods of the Altagracia and Samaná provinces. This flower is so named because it looks like a rose and is only found in the Dominican Republic. Besides these types of flowers, the Dominican Republic is also home to different kinds of shrubs and trees. Often, one can find the Katy, the Trumpetvine, and the Allamanda, which are all naturalized in the country.
In conclusion, the Dominican Republic’s flora is incredibly rich and diverse. From the protected and endangered species to naturalized ones, the country’s flowers are quite the sight to behold. Whether you are a nature lover or a lover of golf and lakes, make sure to explore the 16 different flora areas the country has to offer and take in the stunning beauty that the Dominican Republic has to offer.
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Explore the Beauty of Dominican Republic: 12 Stunning Flowers to Admire
The Dominican Republic offers a diverse range of beautiful flowers to admire. These flowers grow in different environments and account for numerous species that are scientifically shaped to thrive in the Caribbean. Here is a checklist of 12 stunning flowers to explore and appreciate during your visit to the Dominican Republic.
Rare and Appreciated Flowers
Among the unique and appreciated flowers in the Dominican Republic is the Cigua, also known as Queen of the Night; it only blooms once a year. The beautiful and free Fairy, which is considered a symbol of peace and a reminder of spring. The beautiful trumpet-shaped Mantequilla, and the Dieffenbachia, a popular houseplant due to its beauty and easy maintenance.
The Dominican Republic’s national flower
The Dominican Republic’s national flower is the Bayahibe rose, which is usually found on the shores of the Caribbean. Other national symbols are the flower of the Humpback Whale, which is believed to gather strength from the fruits of the Mangrove tree. Additionally, the West Indian Mahogany tree, also known as Caoba, is a national emblem recognised for its valuable wood.
Abundance and Environments
Flora is abundant in the Dominican Republic. The Saman trees, located in the country’s northeast, have a particular shape that resembles an umbrella. This tree creates a beautiful shadow on the ground, making it an ideal environment for other plants such as orchids, ferns and anthuriums. The cigar tree is another fascinating plant; it usually grows in the country’s west and comprises a unique fragrance and fruit that is used for special occasions. The Mango tree is also commonly seen due to its fruit seasoning, which is used in traditional dishes.
Resorts
The resorts in the Dominican Republic celebrate the beauty of flowers too. At Flor de Post, guests can experience a variety of beautiful flowers such as light blue Indigo, rare white Ground Orchids, and the Trumpet Vine plant that attracts hummingbirds with its flowers.
Therefore, even though international travel is still limited, the Dominican Republic is abundant with life, and these beautiful flowers are something to behold.
Hibiscus – Flower of the Dominican Republic
Hibiscus, flower of the Dominican Republic, is appreciated for its beauty and versatility. Collected from the tall trees that have become a haven for its variety, hibiscus blooms brighten the diverse landscapes of the country, from the majestic mountains to the spiked formation in the east.
The flower, which is named after the Greek word ‘hibiskos’, has been derived for different purposes, aside from being used as a symbol for the country. Hibiscus is commonly spotted in different types of resorts, from the Bayahibe and Sosua beaches to the La Romana Divina Orchids course.
The Types of Hibiscus
There are different types of hibiscus in the Dominican Republic, which are categorized based on color and size. The rosa sinensis, for example, is a thick and bold type that has been appreciated for its climbing properties, while the hibiscus rosa verius has been commonly used in different travel arrangements.
The hibiscus rosa-sinensis gets its name from the snake-like formation of its blooms, while the hibiscus mutabilis is named for the variety of blooming colors it undergoes, from white to salmon to deep red. Hibiscus flowers have also been named after animals and objects, with the hibiscus schizopetalus being named for its arrowhead-like bloom formation, and hibiscus cubensis being named after Cuba.
Other Flowers Similar to Hibiscus
Aside from hibiscus, there are other flowers in the Dominican Republic that have been noticed for their beauty and similarity. The seagrape flower, for example, has been appreciated for its beauty and thin petals, while the mango flower has been a popular type for resorts and outside gardens.
Aloe vera, croton, and palmchat fruits are some of the diverse types of flowers that can be spotted across the west and east coasts of the country. The arrowhead flower, which looks similar to the hibiscus schizopetalus, has been known for its thick petals and climbing properties.
Hibiscus: A Versatile and Majestic Flower
Whether guarding the properties of resorts or brightening up the gardens of homes, the hibiscus is a flower that has been appreciated for its beauty and versatility in the Dominican Republic. Every year, tourists and locals alike flock to the different courses and beaches of the country to admire the beauty of this majestic bloom.
With different types of hibiscus and other flowers to choose from, the Dominican Republic is a perfect haven for those who appreciate the beauty of nature. No matter what type of flower you spot on your travels to the country, you can be sure that it will be a sight to behold and appreciated for its beauty.
Bougainvillea – Vibrant and Colorful
One of the most stunning flowers you can easily notice during your Dominican Republic tour is Bougainvillea. Unlike other wild plants and shrubs, Bougainvillea has been remarkable for its growth within the streets and parks. It becomes very hard not to notice this flower with its vibrant colors dotted around the streets, plus the beautiful blossom it showcases.
Scientifically called “Bougainvillea Spectabilis,” this flower belongs to the family of Nyctaginaceae. It is essentially a tropical and perennial plant, with its origin traced to South America. Though not native, Bougainvillea has become a welcoming feature in most Dominican Republic streets and parks, adding a touch of nature and care in public places.
The colors of Bougainvillea
Bougainvillea comes in different colors and shades. You can enjoy the light pink, several shades of red, several hues of purple, bright orange, soft yellow, and even white. It is no wonder why Bougainvillea is often referred to as the “paper flower.” It may sometimes show up in two-color blends or tri-colors, like sunburst, Peach palm, or andenrose.
Different types of Bougainvillea
There are 15 different species of Bougainvilleas, each with different names. Some of them are Allamanda, Vera azul, Isabel, Fuchsia, and Morivivi. Though each of the species has its unique features, they all grow and blossom equally and become a sight to behold. Bougainvillea also sometimes bears fruits which are widely used for making natural products to improve marine life.
- Arrowhead Bougainvillea – with its characteristic rounded petals,
- Chele Bougainvillea – distinguished by its vibrant yellow color,
- Samaná Bougainvillea – located in the eastern peninsula of the Dominican Republic, and
- Trinitaria Bougainvillea – named after the Holy Trinity.
Next time you gather to admire the wild nature of the Dominican Republic, be sure to take a second to notice and appreciate the outstanding beauty of Bougainvillea. It is a true blessing to have such stunning nature close to us, especially in our streets and parks.
Plumeria – Sweet Fragrance and Lovely Blooms
Plumeria, also known as frangipani, is a specific type of flower that grows abundantly in the Dominican Republic. These beautiful flowers come in various colors, from pure white to fuchsia, and can be seen across the valleys and islands of the nation.
The plumeria flower serves as an important spiritual symbol for quisqueyanos, the indigenous people of the island. Sometimes paired with other flowers in spiritual rituals, the plumeria is an essential part of the Indian language and culture outside of the Dominican Republic as well.
Plumeria is a shrub that gets an average of 9 to 19 inches tall, depending on the variety. It usually takes 17 to 19 days for the petals to bloom, and they last for about a week.
Botanists collect plumeria flowers because of their cool and colorful clusters, but also because they remind us of similar species that grow in places like Madagascar, where reptiles like to hang out in them.
Features of Plumeria Flowers
- The plumeria has between 5-9 petals that are spiked or pointed at the tips.
- Their fragrance is sweet and pleasant, especially at night.
- Plumeria flowers are commonly used in the Dominican Republic to make leis and hairpieces.
- Isabel, a variety of plumeria, is one of the most sought-after types due to its beautiful shades of pink, orange and yellow.
Without a doubt, the plumeria flower is one of the most significant elements of the flora found in the Dominican Republic. Take a chance to look them up online or go outside your browser and take a flight to the island to experience the beauty and fragrance of these lovely blooms for yourself.
Bird of Paradise – A Tropical Delight
The Bird of Paradise flower is one of the most stunning and exotic flowers you will find when visiting the Caribbean region, especially in the Dominican Republic. These flowers are collected from the wild and can be found in gardens, parks, and resorts. The flower is oval in shape and about 10-19 meters tall, making it a striking feature of the island’s lush valleys and wide open spaces. They bloom in a spiral of colors that makes for a mesmerising sight, especially against the island’s green walls.
The Growth and Structure:
These flowers grow from a thick stem with round, thin leaves. The seed pods are contained within a humpback cactus, a unique feature that makes it stand out from other flowers. The stems are toxic to humans and animals if ingested, so it is important to ensure that children and pets are kept away from the plant. The Bird of Paradise takes some time to grow and develop, so it is important to take care of it once it has been planted.
Allamanda – A Symbol of Peace
Allamanda is another popular flower to admire in the Dominican Republic, located in the Caribbean. The flower has been given different names such as Katy, Golden Trumpet, and Yellow Bell. It grows up towards the sky, which makes it a perfect addition to your garden’s canopy. The flower’s flesh is light, and there are thousands of them in one round bundle. The Allamanda flower reminds us of taking a stroll in the wild but having the comfort of a resort’s 19-hole golf course nearby.
The Source of Allamanda:
This flower originates from South America and was brought over to the Caribbean for its beauty. The Allamanda is a symbol of peace and tranquillity in many communities, especially in local gardens. It is an essential flower that is used for decoration purposes and other jobs within the region.
Spiralflag – A Delightful Feature
Spiralflag flowers are unique and a delightful feature to admire in the Dominican Republic. They bloom in various colours, from yellow to red, making them an eye-catching sight. The flower’s shape is like that of a spiral or a twirled flag, hence the name Spiralflag. It is not toxic to humans or animals.
The Ti Plant – A Medicinal Flower
The Ti Plant is one of the most widely used flowers in the Dominican Republic. It has medicinal properties and is used to prevent and relieve various ailments. The flower is a beauty to watch and is always an attraction to visiting tourists. Its wide leaves, which are both green and red, make it a must-see in any garden.
The Mango Tree – A Fruitful Beauty
The Mango tree is a tropical beauty and a common feature in the Dominican Republic. It is full of delicious fruit and provides cool shade in the hot, sunny weather. The tree is an excellent addition to any garden or even on the streets. Its fruit is a popular source of nourishment for the locals and visitors alike.
Frangipani – Exotic and Symbolic
The Beauty of Frangipani
Frangipani, scientifically known as Plumeria, is a magnificent flowering tree that is truly iconic in the Caribbean region. Originally from the Philippines, it was introduced to the Dominican Republic and other Caribbean islands centuries ago.
Frangipani is an evergreen tree that usually grows up to 15 feet tall. Its flowers vary from white to deep purple, and it is a beautiful sight to see flowering in gardens and along walls, like in the Pristine Gardens of Altagracia.
The Symbolism of Frangipani
Frangipani is more than just a flower. It has a cultural significance that reminds locals of their ancestors and their motherland. The flower was believed to have healing properties and was used by many cultures times before. In the Dominican Republic, it is bestowed as a blessed flower and an emblem of peace and formation.
Aside from being symbolic, Frangipani also has a language of its own. Locals believe that its scent helps soothe the throat, and the flower makes a great addition to tea or soup. Some people also like to wear Frangipani to weddings or other special ceremonies.
The Different Types of Frangipani
The Dominican Republic is home to around 3 different types of Frangipani, all of which are equally beautiful. From the magnificent yellow Allamanda to the pink Trinidad Triphylla, there is no reason to worry about seeing a monotonous display of flowers during your visit.
Here’s a list of some of the most unique types of Frangipani you’ll notice during your trip to the Dominican Republic:
- Isabel
- Marine
- Arrowhead
- Flor de Muert
Frangipani not only adds beauty and color to the gardens of the Dominican Republic but also plays an important part in the economy of the country. It provides jobs for locals and is exported internationally.
The Palmchat and Frangipani Connection
The Palmchat is a small bird that makes its nest in the Frangipani tree. This bird is considered to be a symbol of luck and unity, as it helps bring the flowers together.
Frangipani isn’t just a beautiful flower with a symbolic meaning. It’s also a vital part of the ecosystem in the Dominican Republic. So if you ever go to the Caribbean, be sure to go and discover the beauty of its Frangipani in all its forms.
Oleander – Hardy and Beautiful
Oleander is a shrub that is scientifically known as Nerium oleander. The shrub usually grows up to a height of 17 feet and is part of the Rosaceae family. It is an impressive flower and is a symbol of some neighborhoods in the country. Oleander is usually found outside houses and light gardens in nearby places.
This flower is hardy and majestic, and it won’t present any problem in terms of maintenance. The presence of oleander in some cultures means that there are plenty of jobs aside from collecting the flower. The plant helps locals to give some products such as cookies, aside from giving some level of performance especially during springtime, when the flower blooms.
Ways to Enjoy Oleander
- Admire the purple, thin, or round petals of the flower. It resembles that of coralillo and pereskia-triphylla
- Take a chance to see the flamboyant performance of this shrub during spring.
- Visit some gardens like Enriquillo or Zanzibar, situated in Samaná, and enjoy the beauty of oleander as well.
Overall, oleander is one of the numerous beautiful types of flowers present in the country, and it is really worth admiring.
Orchids – Exquisite and Diverse
Orchids are a particular gem of the Dominican Republic, with different types growing all over the country. Located in Constanza, you can find the three-leaved triphylla orchids, which are considered one of the most beautiful types in the world.
The three-leaved triphylla orchid gives pride to the Dominican language with its name, reminding us of the devil’s three-pronged pitchfork. Though it is a popular plant, it is still very important to protect it and not pick it while on a visit.
Another type of orchid that you can find outside of Constanza is the growing peregrina orchid. It is a shrub that easily wraps around the trunks of plants, reminding us of a snake.
If you take a trip to fifteen of the towns located between Constanza and Bayahíbe, you will be able to please your eyes with the beautiful purple Katy azul orchids, whose color is similar to that of a cherry.
The Orchid Shows
The Orchid Show that takes place annually in Santo Domingo is an important event for the Dominican Republic. Numerous orchid types from all over the country are presented in a beautiful display of colors and types.
While walking down the streets of the all-natural village of Nispero, located close to Constanza, you will also have the opportunity to see a wide variety of orchids.
Orchids in Popular Culture
The seagrape orchid, which resembles the leaves of the seagrape tree, is a very popular orchid in the Dominican Republic. It can easily be found growing in the country’s canopy trees.
If you like Aloe plants, then you’re in luck because the Dominican Republic has a type of orchid that closely resembles an Aloe plant, called the Bayahíbe orchid.
The Quisqueyana Orchid
The Quisqueyana orchid is one of the most important plants in the Dominican Republic, and it has become a symbol of national pride. This orchid is native to Brazil but has adapted to the Dominican climate.
The walls of the Dominican Republic’s golf courses provide a beautiful location for the Quisqueyana orchid to grow.
Wrap-Up
From the diverse triphylla orchids to the exotic Quisqueyana orchid, the Dominican Republic has a full range of orchids to admire. Whether you’re just strolling down the street or taking a trip to the country’s many towns, you’ll be able to admire the beauty of the country’s orchids.
Heliconias – Bold and Striking
Heliconias are truly remarkable plants endemic to the Dominican Republic’s southeast province of Altagracia. These bold and striking plants are reddish-orange, yellow, or a combination of both colours, with large oval leaves and stems that serve as shrubs. They can grow up to five meters, and their remarkable feature is their canopy of flowers that bloom all year round.
In fact, heliconias are also called “lobster claws” due to the shape of their blooms. They resemble an arrowhead or the claw of a lobster. Heliconias come in thousands of colours, and each one looks like a gem taking close shots.
Their key feature in fact is that these plants can grow in various environments ranging from rainforests to dry environments. The plants can be seen at many resorts on the Dominican Republic like Punta Cana or courses all around the island.
Why Heliconias Are Important
Heliconias have several important reasons to consider, such as:
- They have a close relationship with other ornamental plants like coleus, croton and even aloe vera.
- Heliconias are abundant in the Dominican Republic.
- They are carried worldwide, making it possible to see these gems almost anywhere.
- Heliconias are named differently around the world. They are referred to as the “hanging lobster claw” in Zanzibar or “mantequilla,” meaning butter, in Cuba.
They are rather difficult to grow because of their needs for enough light, water, and protection from harsh winds. However, once given the chance to thrive, they offer an incredible display of colours. In fact, heliconias are sometimes confused with a specific variety of hibiscus called Hibiscus triphylla, but the plants are not related.
Heliconias not only provide colours in lavish environments, but they are also remarkable in traditional medicine. In India, they have been used to treat various skin conditions, while in the Americas traditionally, they have been used to reduce fever.
So, make sure to take a chance to admire heliconias’ truly stunning vibrant colours!
Ginger – Ornamental and Medicinal
Ginger is not only an ornamental plant with magnificent flowers, but also one that has long been used for its medicinal properties. This endemic plant of the Dominican Republic can be found in the north of the country, particularly in the province of Maria Trinidad Sanchez.
Endemic Growth
There are certain varieties of ginger that only grow in the Dominican Republic, making it a must-see on your checklist when visiting the country. Aside from its growth in the wild, you’ll also find ginger as a popular decorative plant in resorts and hotels throughout the country, thanks to its wide and intriguing nature.
Medicinal Benefits
Why not add ginger to your list of must-try natural remedies? This evergreen plant has been thought to have numerous health benefits, including aiding digestion, reducing inflammation, and helping with respiratory issues. Ginger has also been suggested to help reduce pain and headaches.
Aside from its medicinal uses, ginger is best known for its abundant and magnificent flowering. Head to the hills or explore the woods to discover ginger in its natural habitat, along with other flowering plants such as roses, arrowhead vines, and triphylla.
Interesting Varieties
There are many interesting varieties of ginger to discover in the Dominican Republic. One such variety is the kalanchoe, a small plant with brightly colored flowers. Another is the coleus, a plant with colorful foliage that can quickly fill large areas.
Flamboyant trees, mango trees, and guava trees also add to the flowering beauty of the nation, with their own unique colors and fragrances. And of course, there’s the national flower of the Dominican Republic – the rosa de bayahibe, which is abundant in the National Park of the East.
Not Just for Humans
Ginger plants aren’t just beautiful and useful for humans, they can also be a treat for local wildlife. In particular, humpback whales that migrate to the waters off the Dominican Republic from December to April. Marine biologist have found that whales rely on ginger as a natural repellent against pesky slugs.
Don’t worry if you’ve never heard of ginger before, or if you’re not particularly interested in flowers – the Dominican Republic has something for every nature lover and outdoor enthusiast, whether it’s the ocean, the woods, or the hills.
Lantana – Bright and Charming
If you’re looking for a bright and charming type of flower, look no further than Lantana. These flowers are significant to the locals and can be found all over the land. They have become a staple in many environments and are now present in over 5 different hues. They originate from Cuba and are named after a specific species of Brassia.
Lantana flowers thrive in certain unusual environments, plus they come in various names too, from the vibrant hues of “wild jazmin” to the hard to grow “Lily 13”. They really are a remarkable natural presence on the island.
Lantana and Morivivi
You could truly collect all the Lantana colors if you picture this- a trip to the marine peninsula of Bayahibe – a waterfront excursion by boat. Dominicans present a related flower called Morivivi, which is a purple-ish shade, and it grows in the streets or in pothos. The foliage is really cool to explore, but be wary of the slugs that could make their way to plants.
Discovering Coralillos
If you thought we were done with just a few types of flowers, well here is another – Coralillos. They come in a variety of colors and remind one of Guava, yet they also have a certain lily leaf that’s quite unusual. They can be found in nooks and crannies all over the island, plus they look remarkable in vibrant surroundings.
- Lantana
- Morivivi
- Coralillos
All of these flowers can be grown really hardily and are a significant part of the island’s growing collection.
Morivivi the shameful beauty of the Dominican Republic
Morivivi – the plant of wonder. The timid Mimosa Pudica, also known as morivivi in Dominican Republic, is a unique plant that has the incredible ability to close its leaves when touched. But that’s not all, at dusk, it also gracefully closes its leaves, as if it’s preparing for a peaceful slumber. It’s no wonder that this enchanting plant captures the attention and imagination of Puerto Rican children, who can spend endless hours playing with it. In Dominican Republic, this plant is commonly referred to as moriviví, which is derived from its scientific name, mimosa pudica. While in English, it is sometimes called a touch-me-not, the name morivivi perfectly captures the essence of this fascinating plant. Not only does it respond to touch, but its stems are adorned with thorns, and it blooms a soft and fluffy pinkish-purple flower. Truly, the morivivir is a plant that evokes curiosity and awe.
As per the information available on Wikipedia, Mimosa pudica is widely recognized for its rapid plant motion. Similar to several other plant species, it experiences variations in leaf positioning referred to as “sleep” or nyctinastic movement. The foliage closes during periods of darkness and opens up again in the presence of light. Furthermore, the leaves also close in response to different stimuli like touch, heat, wind, or agitation. These kinds of movements are classified as seismonastic movements. The stimulus is transmitted through action potentials to the pulvini of the plant, where contractile proteins and aquaporins facilitate the release of water and electrolytes from the cell. This inward folding movement demands significant energy from the plant and also disrupts the process of photosynthesis. Additionally, the stimulus can be communicated to neighboring leaves. The exact reason behind Mimosa pudica evolving this trait remains unknown, although many scientists speculate that the plant employs its shrinking ability as a defense mechanism against herbivores. It is believed that animals may be deterred by a rapidly moving plant and prefer to consume one that is less active. Another possible explanation is that the sudden movement helps dislodge harmful insects.
Ixoras – Beautiful and Deer-Resistant
The Beauty of Ixoras in the Dominican Republic
Ixoras are a type of flowering plant that grows in the Dominican Republic. These plants are widely grown throughout the country and can be found in many areas, from the campo to lush gardens outside of homes and hotels. Ixoras are one of the most magnificent flowers you can expect to see in the Dominican Republic.
Adaptation and Collection of Ixoras
Ixoras come in a variety of shapes, sizes, and colors, making them an unusual gem to behold. Some species even grow as large as 6 feet tall! These plants have adapted quite significantly to the humid and tropical climates of the country. Many botanists have collected seeds of these flowers to make all-natural medicines. However, caution must be taken when handling the Ixoras as they are toxic to deer.
Thank Ixoras for Deer-Free Areas
One of the reasons Ixoras are so widely grown in the Dominican Republic is their deer-resistant nature. The fact that Ixoras are toxic to deer has protected many areas of the country from unwanted deer intruders. This is important because deer can be dangerous, and the Dominican Republic is home to crocodiles and other potentially harmful animals.
The Peregrina and Rosa Ixoras
The Peregrina and Rosa Ixoras are two of the most widely known Ixoras in the country. The Peregrina Ixora is also known as the jungle flame, and the Rosa Ixora is also known as the Pink Jungle Flame. These plants are highly sought-after for their lush green leaves and yellow, pink, and rose-colored flowers. They are perfect for gardens and around the walls of buildings.
The French Connection to Ixoras in the Dominican Republic
The Ixoras comes from South America, but the French were the ones who brought it to the Dominican Republic. They were especially fond of the flower and brought it to the country to grow in their gardens. Today, Ixoras continue to be widely grown throughout the Dominican Republic.
Explore the Beauty of Ixoras in the Dominican Republic
If you are on a boat outside of the Dominican Republic, you may catch a glimpse of the magnificent Ixoras growing along the shorelines. These flowers are an opportunity to explore and collect a bit of the beauty of the Dominican Republic. Take a moment to admire their magnificent shapes, light, and colors.
Wrap-Up on Ixoras in the Dominican Republic
Ixoras are a must-see for anyone exploring the Dominican Republic. They are widely grown and make a beautiful addition to gardens and other outdoor spaces. Their adaptation to the humid and tropical climates of the country is impressive, and their toxic nature keeps deer away from many areas. Thank the French for bringing these lovely flowers to the country, and enjoy exploring all of the beautiful varieties and lush colors of the Ixoras in the Dominican Republic.
Canna Lily – Striking and Tropical
Botanical Characteristics
The Canna Lily, also referred to as Canna or Indian Shot, belongs to the family Cannaceae. Originally from West and South America, it was carried by the French to Europe and then spread to Africa, Madagascar and Asia. It is a perennial plant that can grow up to 8 feet tall and produces remarkable flowers in various colors such as red, orange, yellow and pink.
Growing Conditions
In the Dominican Republic, several varieties of Canna Lilies are grown in gardens, parks and protected forests. They are suitable for both tropical and subtropical regions, where rainfall is abundant and the temperature is high. Canna Lilies are known to prefer moist soils and have spotted leaves that remind us of peace lilies or ginger plants. They are grown from seeds or rhizomes and can quickly gather ground in any suitable space.
Cultural Significance
Canna Lilies are related to many cultures and are often used as a decorative plant in gardens and parks. In some regions like Bayahibe, they are carried during processions or to create flower arrangements. Several varieties of Canna Lilies, like the Triphylla and the Nispero Peregrina, are rare and carry the genetic value of the American flora. They often become a souvenir for tourists who visit the island.
A Reminder of the Beauty of Nature
Canna Lilies are a peace reminder of the beauty of nature in the Dominican Republic. They can be spotted in the hills, woods, and even near the beach. In 2023, the Dominican Republic will host the Flor de la Hispanidad event, where many Canna Lily varieties and other botanical species will be exhibited. This event will showcase the richness of the flora in the Caribbean, and it is a must-see for nature lovers.
What are some of the most beautiful flowers in the Dominican Republic?
The Dominican Republic is home to a variety of beautiful flowers, including the Hibiscus, Bougainvillea, Angel’s Trumpet, and Bird of Paradise.
Where can I see these flowers in the Dominican Republic?
These flowers can be seen in a variety of places throughout the Dominican Republic, including botanical gardens, public parks, and even alongside the roadways.
How can I identify different types of flowers in the Dominican Republic?
There are numerous guidebooks and online resources available to help you identify different types of flowers in the Dominican Republic. In addition, many botanical gardens and parks offer guided tours with experts who can help you identify different species.
What is the significance of these flowers in Dominican culture?
While there is no specific cultural significance associated with these flowers, they are highly valued for their beauty. In addition, many of these flowers are featured in artwork and used in traditional decorations for festivals and celebrations.
