During the month of March each year, many parts of Jamaica are showered in yellow flowers that fall from the poui tree, creating a hauntingly beautiful mat at the foot of these magnificent plants. The yellow poui which is also known scientifically as Tabeuia serratifolia, is said to originate in Central America and can be found in a number of Caribbean countries. The tree thrives in regions that experience low rainfall and the flowers add great aesthetic value to the environment. According to one source, “[t]he tree usually blooms during the drier periods of the year and is considered drought resistant. It grows up to 15ft in height. However, it can be pruned to achieve a smaller-looking tree. The wood of the tree is generally used for decks, furniture and other outdoor projects” (https://www.forestry.gov.jm/blogDetails?newsID=17, downloaded 26/3/2023).
CaribXplorer’s publisher and photographer, Ian Boxill, could not resist the magic of the poui and hence captured these photos on The University of the West Indies, Mona Campus.
