Tobago / Special Interests / Flowers & Gardens

Tobago is immensely fertile. Much of its plant life has its origins in South America, which lies not far off to the south.

The centrepiece of the rainforest is the Main Ridge Forest Reserve, the oldest reserve in the western hemisphere, possibly in the world (declared in 1776). There are over 300 varieties of trees and more than a dozen wild orchids. The most accessible point of entry to the forest is the Gilpin Trace, which is a popular marked trail of around 6 miles.

A number of spectacular flowering trees are to be found around the island. In the New Year and into February the immortelle produces glorious, bright golden-orange flowers. Also called madre de cacoa (mother of cocoa), it was imported as a shade tree for the cocoa walks, which you will pass through on approach to the Forest Reserve. Also early in the year African tulip trees come out, with their clusters of bold, flame coloured flowers. In April/May the delicate blossoms of the yellow and pink poui trees fall like a carpet on the ground, followed by cassias with golden-yellow flowers. The national flower of Trinidad and Tobago is the flame red chaconia, also known as wild poinsettia.

Over the years the Horticultural Society of Trinidad and Tobago has won several Gold Medals at the Royal Horticultural Society's shows in the UK. In 2003 they won their first Gold Medal in 14 years at the RHS Chelsea Flower Show, with another Gold win In 2011 making a current total of fifteen. A Silver-Gilt Medal was awarded for their 2012 exhibit.

Botanical Gardens -Established over 100 years ago, the 17 acre garden is located on the outskirts of the capital Scarborough. It is home to avenues of Royal Palms, and a selection of indigenous plants, trees and flowers. It is more of a park now, a quiet retreat on the outskirts of the (relative) bustle of Scarborough.

Non-profit organisations and Government links:

The Horticultural Society of Trinidad and Tobago, Lady Chancellor Road, Port of Spain, t 622 6423

Contributors: James Henderson (editor)