COMING SOON!
Ivanna Eudora Kean Arboretum: with Rotary Eco East and the IEKHS Interact Club
In 2024 Rotary East Eco partnered with the Ivanna Eudora Kean Interact Club and VICS’s Eco-Schools program to revitalize the Kean arboretum planted by Rotary in 1999. Rotary Eco built an outdoor classroom and planted new trees. The Interact students researched the trees in the arboretum to create a self-guided interactive tour of the arboretum through descriptive tree tags that lead to this web page! Learn more about the trees in this arboretum by reading their work below.
1. Autograph Tree (Clusia rosea)
The autograph tree, also known as Clusia rosea or “pitch apple,” is a tropical plant native to the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. The autograph tree gets its name because the thick, leathery leaves can be inscribed with messages using a sharp object. The “autograph” remains visible on the leaf for a long time. It is a slow-growing evergreen tree that can reach 25-50 feet when mature. Depending on its environment, it can also grow as a shrub or even a vine-like plant.
The autograph tree produces white or pinkish flowers, which bloom primarily in summer. These flowers are star-shaped and have a waxy texture. The tree bears green, apple-like fruits that turn brown as they mature. When the fruit splits open, it reveals black seeds covered in a red, sticky pulp. While the fruits and sap of the autograph tree are toxic if ingested, they are rarely eaten due to their unappealing taste.
The autograph tree is popular in landscaping because of its dense foliage and ability to thrive in various conditions. It is used as a hedge, screen, or shade tree. It’s also known for its resilience and tolerance to salt spray, making it ideal for coastal areas. The autograph tree can start its life as an epiphyte (a plant growing on another plant), sending aerial roots down to the ground, where it eventually develops into a free-standing tree. This habit sometimes earns it the nickname “strangler fig,” although it’s not a true fig.
It thrives in warm, tropical climates and can tolerate drought and poor soil conditions. However, it prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soil. In some regions, such as Florida, the autograph tree is considered invasive, as it can outcompete native species and spread aggressively.
2. Mahogany (Swietenia macrophylla)
West Indies Mahogany and Honduran Mahogany are native to Central America and parts of the Caribbean. While not thought to be native to the U.S. Virgin Islands, these trees have been present in the territory since at least 1775 according to local historian Olasee Davis. Both species have been planted in the VI to the point where they are often hybridized and it is difficult to tell the difference between the two species.
These true mahoganies produce one of the world’s most valuable cabinet wood, and also has been historically used for ship building and fine furniture. Mahogany is grown agriculturally for its wood and is also widely planted as shade trees and street trees. Despite its cultural importance and long history in the Virgin Islands, mahogany has an aggressive root system and can be invasive in certain settings if it does not have enough space to grow.
3. Kapok (Ceiba pentandra)
The Kapok Tree, also known as the silk cotton tree, is native to the rainforests of Central and South America but is found throughout the tropics. The kapok tree holds important cultural significance in the USVI as it was historically used by indigenous peoples in the Caribbean for its wood and for the fluffy fibers produced by the kapok tree when in season every few years. The wood of the kapok is lightweight and buoyant and may have been used by Tainos and other indigenous peoples in the Caribbean to craft canoes and other tools. The kapok reproduces with large, woody seed pods which are surrounded by a fluffy fiber which aids in its dispersal and was also historically used in making pillows, cushions and life preservers. Locally, this tree is known as the silk cotton tree.
4. Surinam Cherry (Eugenia Uniflora)
Surinam Cherry is a small shrub that is native in several tropical regions including Surinam, Guyana, French Guiana, Southern Brazil and Uruguay. It grows wild in thickets along the banks of the Pilcomayo River in Paraguay.
Here is the Virgin Islands it is not native but it is also not invasive, meaning that it does not outcompete other plants surrounding it but rather minds its manners and stays in its lane. For that reason, and because of its hardiness it is a popular landscaping plant. It bears a dark red cherry that is very tart and moderately sweet with a mild spiced flavor. This cherry is fun to eat straight off of the bush and also tastes great with ice cream or in jams. The bushes are not prolific fruit producers and therefore the fruit has not found a commercial market, but this plant is still an attractive addition to an edible landscape.
5. Yellow Poui (Tabebuia serratifolia)
Description
Handroanthus serratifolius (is a species of flowering plant in the family Bignoniaceae. It is native to Brazil and is found in tropical and subtropical forests. It is a large tree with a straight trunk and a rounded crown. The leaves are pinnate and the flowers are yellow.
Handroanthus serratifolius is used as an ornamental plant in gardens and as a medicinal plant for treating fever, skin diseases, and wounds.
Flower, Seeds and Seedlings
The flowers of Handroanthus serratifolius are small, yellow-green, and have four petals. The
seeds are small, dark brown, and have a hard outer shell. The seedlings are thin and have a
single, long stem with two small leaves..
6. Pink Powder Puff Tree (Calliandra emargineta)
Description
The Pink Powder Puff Tree is a tropical tree from Central and South America, known for its bright pink, fluffy flowers that look like puffs of cotton. These flowers bloom all year in warm climates, making it a colorful addition to gardens and parks. The tree can grow about 10-15 feet tall and has a rounded shape with lush green leaves.
This tree loves warm, tropical weather and grows best in well-drained soil and full sun to partial shade. You’ll often find it in gardens, parks, and botanical gardens, where it attracts pollinators like bees and hummingbirds. The pink powder puff offers several ecological benefits. Pollinator Attraction: Its many flowers draw in bees and other pollinators, helping local ecosystems. Wildlife Habitat: The seed pods provide food for birds and small animals supporting wildlife. Soil Improvement: The leaves can be used as green manure to boost soil fertility. The tree’s roots help stabilize soil and prevent erosion, especially on slopes.
The pink powder puff tree also has many traditional uses. Parts of the tree have been used in traditional medicine for their potential anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, though more research is needed. In some cultures, the bark and branches are used to make fibers, but this isn’t common.
You can grow this tree from seeds or cuttings. Soaking seeds before planting helps them germinate better. Once established, it needs little maintenance, just regular watering during dry spells and occasional pruning. Its beautiful flowers and thick foliage make it great for ornamental gardens, borders, and as a standout specimen tree.
In some non-native areas, the Pink Powder Puff Tree can become invasive. It’s important to keep an eye on its growth and manage it responsibly.
Overall, the Pink Powder Puff Tree is a striking addition to any landscape and offers ecological benefits, making it a valuable plant for various settings.
7. Sugar Apple (Annona squamosa)
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8. Soursop (Annona Muricata)
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9. Frangipani (Plumeria celadine)
The frangipani tree, also known as Plumeria, is famous for its beautiful, fragrant flowers and tropical appeal. Comes from the Native to the Caribbean, Central America, and Mexico, the frangipani is now commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions worldwide. Frangipani flowers come in a variety of colors, including white, pink, yellow, and red, with a strong, sweet fragrance. They often bloom in spring and last through summer.
In many cultures, frangipani flowers are symbolic of love, immortality, and spiritual devotion.They are often used in religious ceremonies and are associated with grace and beauty. The tree can grow up to 25 feet tall but often stays smaller when grown in gardens. It has a distinctive
branching structure and thick, fleshy stems that store water, allowing it to survive dry periods. The frangipani’s flowers are used in traditional medicine and perfumes in Hawaiian culture. Its sap, however, is mildly toxic and can cause irritation.
Frangipani is drought-tolerant and thrives in well-drained soil and full sunlight. It prefers warm climates and cannot withstand frost. The leaves are large, dark green, and leathery, with a smooth texture and pointed tip. They often drop during the plants dormant period. Frangipani can be easily propagated from cuttings, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
10. Fiddlewood (Citharexylum fruticosum)
The fiddlewood tree, scientifically known as *Citharexylum spinosum*, is native to tropical regions of the Americas, including the Caribbean and parts of Central and South America. Fiddlewood can grow between 10 and 15 meters tall, has a straight trunk with light gray bark, and its leaves are oval-shaped, measuring 5 to 10 centimeters long. During its flowering season, it produces small white or yellow flowers that are attractive to birds and other pollinators. An interesting feature of fiddlewood is its salt
resistance, making it ideal for planting in coastal areas. Additionally, its dense shade makes it an excellent choice for gardens and parks. The fiddlewood tree is primarily used for its hard, dense wood, which is highly valued in making furniture, decorative items, and crafts. However, it is important to note that fiddlewood can be difficult to work with due to its hardness.
11. Orange Manjac (Cordia rickseed)
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12. Senna (Senna polyphylla)
Native to Eastern U.S. from Orlando, Canada, and south of Georgia.
Senna is used on a short-term basis to treat constipation.
It’s used to empty the bowels before surgery and certain medical procedures.
13. Pink Cedar (Tabebuia heterophylla)
Pink Cedar Tree is a genus of trees in the legume family, Fabaceae. It comprises one species, Acrocarpus fraxinifolius. The pink cedar, a large deciduous emergent tree is native to Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, Nepal and Thailand. Its also known as Balangi or Kurungatti in India.
14. Almond Tree (Prunus amygdelus)
The almond tree (Prunus dulcis) is a deciduous tree famous for producing almonds, which are both a popular snack and an ingredient in various dishes. Native to the Middle East and South Asia, the almond tree is now widely cultivated in Mediterranean climates, particularly in California, which produces a large percentage of the world’s almonds. Almond trees produce beautiful white or pale pink flowers that bloom in early spring before the leaves appear. The flowers are fragrant and attractive to bees, making them important for pollination. The almond fruit is a drupe, which consists of an outer hull and a hard shell with the edible seed (almond) inside. The fruit starts green and eventually dries and splits open to reveal the almond.
The almond tree typically grows 10 to 15 feet tall but can reach heights of up to 30 feet in optimal conditions. It has a rounded, spreading canopy with lance-shaped leaves. Almond trees require a Mediterranean-type climate with warm, dry summers and mild, wet winters. They are sensitive to frost, particularly during the flowering stage. Almonds are a rich source of healthy fats, fiber, protein, vitamins, and minerals. They are known to promote heart health, lower cholesterol, and aid in weight management.
There are two main types of almonds: sweet almonds, which are used for culinary purposes, sweet and bitter almonds, which contain cyanide and are not eaten raw but used to make almond oil and flavorings after processing. Almonds are usually harvested in late summer or early fall. The outer hull is removed, and the almonds are dried before being shelled.
Almonds are used in a wide range of products, including almond milk, almond butter, marzipan, and almond flour. The oil extracted from almonds is also used in cooking, skincare, and hair care products. Almonds have historical significance and are mentioned in ancient texts, including the Bible. They are often symbols of rebirth, purity, and good fortune in various cultures.
15. Coconut Palm (Cocos nucifera)
coconut palm tree (Cocos nucifera) is one of the most iconic and versatile tropical plants, renowned for its distinctive appearance and numerous uses. Native to coastal regions of the tropics, this tree thrives in sandy soils and is often associated with idyllic beach settings. Coconut palms can reach heights of up to 30 meters (approximately 98 feet) and typically have a slender trunk that sways gracefully in the wind. Their leaves, known as fronds, are long and feather-like, growing in a spiral pattern at the top of the trunk. The tree produces large clusters of fruit, known as coconuts, which contain a hard shell, a layer of fibrous husk, and a nutritious, water-filled center.
Coconut palms flourish in warm, humid climates with plenty of sunlight and rainfall. They are often found in coastal areas, where they can withstand saltwater and sandy soil. These trees play a crucial role in preventing coastal erosion and provide habitats for various wildlife.
The wood of the coconut palm is used in construction and furniture making. Additionally, the fibers from the husk can be woven into ropes, mats, and baskets. How it affects the culture: in many tropical cultures, the coconut palm is more than just a resource; it holds cultural and religious significance It is often featured in ceremonies and is celebrated for its ability to provide sustenance.
The coconut is highly valued for its meat and water, which are consumed fresh or processed into products like coconut milk and oil. These ingredients are staples in many cuisines worldwide.
Coconut products, especially coconut oil, are touted for their health benefits, including antimicrobial properties and potential contributions to heart health. The role they play on the ecosystems: Coconut palms play a vital role in their ecosystems. They provide shade, reduce soil erosion, and contribute to the livelihoods of millions of people in tropical regions. However, unsustainable harvesting practices and climate change threaten their populations and the delicate ecosystems they support.
16. Golden Apple (Spondias dulcis)
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17. Gooseberry Tree (Phyllanthus acidus)
A gooseberry is a type of fruit, specifically a berry, and they belong to the same family as the currant. They have a greenish color, although they darken to a purplish-red as they ripen. Gooseberries look similar to in-grown clementines, and the skin is covered in little hairs.
18. Guavaberry (Myrciaria floribunda)
The Guava berry tree (scientific name Myrciaria floribunda), also known as Rumberry, as a fruit-bearing tree native to the Caribbean, Central, and South America. It is particularly well-known in places like St. Maarten, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico, where its small, tart berries are used in traditional beverages, especially during the Christmas season.
The Guava berry tree is medium-sized, typically growing between 10 to 25 feet (3 to 8 meters) tall. It has dark green, oval-shaped leaves that are glossy and aromatic when crushed. Flowers: Small, white, or pale pink flowers grow in clusters, which later turn into the tree’s fruit. Fruit: The berries are round, ranging in color from orange to red or dark purple when ripe. Each fruit is about the size of a pea and contains a single seed. The taste is often described as a mix of tart and sweet, with a slightly spicy flavor.
Uses:
1. Culinary: The Guava berry is prized for its use in making Guava berry liqueur, a popular Christmas drink in the Caribbean. The liqueur is made by mixing the berries with rum, sugar, and spices. The fruit can also be used in jams, jellies, and sauces due to its unique flavor profile.
2. Medicinal: Traditionally, the Guava berry tree’s bark, leaves, and berries have been used in folk medicine to treat various ailments, including digestive issues and respiratory conditions.
Cultural Significance:
In the Caribbean, the Guava berry tree holds cultural importance. The liqueur made from its fruit is often homemade and shared during festive celebrations. Guavaberry rum is a symbol of local heritage and pride, and the tree itself is considered a part of the island’s natural landscape.
Ecological Importance:
The Guava berry tree supports local ecosystems by providing food for birds, insects, and other wildlife. Its hardy nature allows it to thrive in various conditions, from coastal areas to inland forests. The tree is relatively drought-resistant and grows well in sandy or rocky soils, making it an essential part of the natural vegetation in the regions where it is found. The Guava berry tree is not only valued for its fruit but also as a symbol of island traditions and community.
19. Carambola (Averrhoa carambola)
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20. Dragon Tree (Dracaena cambodiana)
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21. Christmas Palm (Adonidia merrillii)
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22. Tamarind (Tamarindus indica)
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23. Sky Flower (Duranta Erecta)
The sky flower, also known as Duranta erecta, is a tropical plant known for its cascading clusters of vibrant blue or violet flowers. Also called golden dewdrop, pigeon berry, or Brazilian sky flower, Duranta erecta is popular for its ornamental beauty. The plant produces small, tubular flowers that are typically blue or violet, though some varieties have white flowers.
These flowers often bloom in large, cascading clusters. After flowering, the sky flower develops small, golden-yellow berries that hang in clusters, adding visual interest. While they are attractive, the berries are toxic to humans and pets if ingested.
The sky flower is a fast-growing, evergreen shrub or small tree that can reach heights of 10-25 feet. It is often used as a hedge, in containers, or as a landscape accent due to its dense foliage and flowers. The leaves are bright green, simple, and oval-shaped. Some varieties have variegated leaves with shades of yellow or white.
The flowers are highly attractive to pollinators, including bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds. The berries are also a food source for birds, though poisonous to mammals.
Native to tropical regions of the Americas, the sky flower thrives in warm climates. It prefers full sun but can tolerate partial shade. It grows best in well-drained soil with moderate moisture.
The sky flower can be pruned to maintain its shape and size, especially when grown as a hedge or topiary. It’s relatively low-maintenance and drought-tolerant once established. In some regions, including parts of Australia and South Africa, the sky flower has been classified as invasive due to its ability to spread rapidly and outcompete native plants.