Flowering Frangipani
Palm trees to hibiscus to frangipani to bougainvilla to birds of paradise - and as far as I know, none of these are endemic to New Caledonia - all are in full splendor at this time of year. New Caledonia is fifth in the world for its diversity of flora - and 75% of our flora is endemic.
We are lucky enough to have bougainvilla, hibiscus and frangipani in our front yard, along with a couple of palm trees. We also have a budding pineapple plant - and around the corner some banana-laden banana trees. I am yet to find a good book or site in English on the flora of New Caledonia, but I have just stumbled on this site on endemic plants and flowers in New Caledonia, if you are interested in our pines (yes - we have many a tall swaying pine on our little South Pacific island) and local flowering plants: http://www.mobot.org/MOBOT/research/newcaledonia/origin.html. Click through the pages if you have a little time -- the author has clearly studied the subject thoroughly.
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2 comments:
You lucky devils, you! My favorite plants. We call frangipani "plumeria", and I've planted two of those in my back patio - you'll have to come see!!! Also, bird of paradise, big and small, palms, banana, etc.
My scientist sister was just here collecting plants. I went with her in the field to a few places. You should check out Les Chutes de la Madelaine. It's a really great place to look at some strange endemic plants and it's only about 1 1/2 hours drive from Nouméa.
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