Trees and Plants of Saint-Barthelemy
Exceptional tropical flora between lush vegetation and adaptation to the dry Caribbean climate
The Tropical Flora of Saint-Barth
Saint-Barthelemy features unique tropical flora, shaped by its dry climate, constant trade winds, and colonial history. The island hosts a fascinating mix of endemic Caribbean plants, species introduced by European colonists, and vegetation adapted to semi-arid conditions.
Unlike the wetter Caribbean islands, Saint-Barth develops drought-resistant vegetation, creating unique landscapes where cacti grow alongside palm trees, and bougainvillea explodes with colors against golden hills.
Iconic Trees
Royal Palm (Roystonea regia)
The royal palm dominates the Saint-Barth landscape with its slender trunks reaching up to 25 meters. A symbol of the Caribbean, it withstands hurricanes thanks to its exceptional flexibility.
Flamboyant Tree (Delonix regia)
Spectacular tree with orange-red flowers that transforms the island into an impressionist painting from May to July. Its dense shade makes it a welcome refuge from the sun.
Saint-Barth Acacia (Vachellia tortuosa)
Thorny tree endemic to the Caribbean, perfectly adapted to the dry climate. Its white thorns and fine foliage create a characteristic silhouette of the island landscape.
Gumbo-Limbo (Bursera simaruba)
Tree recognizable by its red copper bark that peels in thin sheets. Traditionally used to make canoes in the Caribbean.
Flowers and Ornamental Plants
Bougainvillea
Colors: Pink, purple, orange, white
Blooming: Year-round (peak Dec-May)
Iconic climbing plant that adorns walls and pergolas with bright colors
Hibiscus
Colors: Red, pink, yellow, white
Blooming: Year-round
National flower of many Caribbean islands, prized for its large flowers
Frangipani
Colors: White, pink, yellow
Blooming: March to November
Enchanting fragrance and flowers used for traditional leis
Allamanda
Colors: Golden yellow
Blooming: Year-round
Vine with large yellow trumpet-shaped flowers
Bird of Paradise
Colors: Orange and blue
Blooming: Year-round
Spectacular exotic flower resembling a tropical bird
Aloe Vera
Colors: Yellow/orange flowers
Blooming: January to March
Succulent plant with many medicinal and cosmetic properties
Plants Adapted to Dry Climate
Saint-Barth receives only 700-1000mm of rain per year, making it one of the driest islands in the Lesser Antilles. This peculiarity has favored the development of unique xerophytic vegetation.
Turk's Cap Cactus
Endemic to the Caribbean
Agave
Succulent plant
Prickly Pear (Opuntia)
Edible cactus
Sea Purslane
Coastal plant
Lignum Vitae
Hardest wood in the world
Logwood
Dye tree
Thatch Palm
Dry zone palm
Mapou
Sacred Caribbean tree
Edible and Medicinal Plants
Edible Plants
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Mango Tree
Fruits from May to July, very fragrant local varieties
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Papaya Tree
Year-round production, papain enzyme with digestive properties
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Guava Tree
Vitamin C-rich fruits, traditional jellies
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Soursop
Exotic fruit with unique taste, refreshing juices
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Lime Tree
Key limes for Creole cuisine and ti-punch
Medicinal Plants
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Aloe Vera
Burns, healing, skin hydration
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Lemongrass
Natural mosquito repellent, digestive teas
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Verbena
Traditional calming and digestive tea
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Purslane
Rich in omega-3, anti-inflammatory properties
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Holy Basil
Adaptogenic properties, stress management
Best Times to Observe Flora
Dry Season (Dec-April)
- ✓ Flamboyants in full bloom (March-April)
- ✓ Bougainvillea explode with colors
- ✓ More golden vegetation, striking contrast
- ✓ Ideal for landscape photography
Wet Season (May-Nov)
- ✓ Lush green vegetation
- ✓ Many species in bloom
- ✓ Tropical fruits in abundance
- ✓ More intense floral scents
Year-Round
- ✓ Palm trees and coconut palms
- ✓ Hibiscus and allamanda
- ✓ Cacti and succulent plants
- ✓ Private botanical gardens
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does Saint-Barth have less vegetation than other Caribbean islands?
Saint-Barth is one of the driest islands in the Lesser Antilles with only 700-1000mm of rain per year, compared to 2000-3000mm for islands like Martinique or Guadeloupe. This natural dryness, combined with constant trade winds, favors adapted xerophytic vegetation.
Can I pick fruits or flowers on the island?
Picking in private spaces is prohibited without permission. Some fruit trees on public paths allow occasional picking, but always with respect. Endemic and protected species should never be harvested.
Are there dangerous plants in Saint-Barth?
Yes, a few species: the manchineel tree (extremely toxic, marked with a red band), some cacti with irritating spines, and stinging nettle (very urticating). Avoid touching unknown plants and never shelter under a manchineel tree.
Where can I see the most beautiful gardens on the island?
Many private villas have spectacular gardens (not accessible to the public). Flowered public spaces include the surroundings of Gustavia Town Hall, gardens of certain luxury hotels, and hiking trails like the Colombier path where wild flora is preserved.
Explore the Biodiversity of Saint-Barthelemy
Marine fauna, birds, insects and much more