Have you been thinking about beautifying that back-yard space or doing some tree planting in your community? But just can’t seem to identify the right plants to fit in your space?

Well, we discuss five (5) ornamental species you can get from the Forestry Department to use in beautifying that back-yard space or area in your community that has been blah! all year round.

1. Shower of Gold (Peltophorum ptercarpum)                   

Introduced from Australia, the shower of gold scientifically called peltophorum ptercarpum is a drought resistant plant ideal for planting in urban spaces.When in bloom, this plant has a yellowish/goldish flower. It can grow up to 40 c and thrives when planted in a spot that gets full sun that is at least 6-8 hours each day. This helps to maximize the plant’s flowering potential.

2. Pride of Barbados (Caesalpinia pulcherrima)                                                                                                                              

Scientifically called caesalpinia pulcherrima, it is a member of the pea family (fabaceae) and commonly referred to as Barbados Flowerfence, Peacock Flower, Mexican Bird of Paradise, Dwarf Flamboyan or Dwarf Poinciana. The species name pulcherrima means ‘very pretty’ and is truly representative of the plant. The plant has prickles on the trunk and branches and tends to flower all year long. The blooms of the Pride of Barbados are incredible with terminal flower clusters showing an orange-red, red, or orange-yellow. Each flower is composed of five showy petals with very prominent six-inch-long red stamens. This makes the Pride of Barbados one of the most attractive heat loving plant in Jamaica. The plant is drought resistant and blooms best in full sun.

3. Java Cassia (Cassia javanica)                                                                                                                                                                  

The Java Cassia scientifically called Cassia Javanica is another beautiful plant which you can include in your green space. The plant is drought resistant, blooms pink and white flowers with candle like fruits. It requires full exposure to sun and average amount of water for sustainability.

4. Poorman’s Orchid (Bauhina purpurea or Bauhina variegate)                                                                                                          

Introduced from Australia, the Poorman’s Orchid is scientifically called Bauhina Purpurea or Bauhina Variegate. The plant is drought resistant and tends to bloom almost year round. The blooms of this plant vary from purple, pink or red. The plant grows up to 400m and requires average amounts of water.

5. Yellow Poui (Tabebuia serratifolia)                                                                                                                                                  

The yellow poui is scientifically called Tabebuia serratifolia. The 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.

Now that you have identified trees for your space, would you happen to know how to correctly plant a tree? No? Do not worry we will give you the basic steps in doing so. 

Steps to plan a tree

1. Dig a hole slightly wider and deeper than the root plug or bag containing the seedling to be planted.

2. Place the root plug or potted/bagged seedling at the bottom of the hole. The root collar should be in line with the soil surface. Seedlings should be planted without compromising the straight rooting system (no bending/twisting).

3. Fill the hole with the soil that was initially removed and press the soil around the roots. Make sure to water the seedling depending on how moist the soil is.

4. Seedlings should be adequately watered over time to ensure continued growth and survival.