Joanna James
On a journey to the Maldives, prepare to be enchanted by a rich array of flora that add vibrant splashes of colour to its already stunning landscape. For nature lovers seeking to immerse themselves in the island's botanical wonders, here are the top seven plant and tree species to seek out.
In the lush gardens and tropical oases of the Maldives, the Pink Rose stands out as a symbol of delicate beauty and romance. Interestingly, it is also the country’s national flower and is well worth photographing as well. Admire its soft, blush-pink petals as they gracefully unfurl under the warm island sun, adding a touch of elegance to the tropical surroundings. Whether nestled among verdant foliage or adorning the pathways of luxury resorts, the Pink Rose is a sight to behold, inviting you to pause and appreciate the simple pleasures of nature's bounty.
With its heavenly fragrance and exquisite blooms, the frangipani tree is a beloved fixture in the botanical landscape of the Maldives. Known for its striking, star-shaped flowers in shades of white, pink, and yellow, the frangipani infuses the air with its sweet scent, creating an atmosphere of tropical bliss. Whether gracing the grounds of island retreats or being used for decorations or traditional rituals, the flowers will leave you captivated with their beauty and fragrance, which combine to create a magical ambience.
A ubiquitous presence in the country, the coconut palm is not only a symbol of tropical paradise but also a source of sustenance and shelter for island communities. With its tall, slender trunk and graceful fronds swaying in the ocean breeze, it epitomises the idyllic beauty of island living, part of the joys of staying at a beach villa; Maldives getaways at private island resorts such as Atmosphere Kanifushi provide the ideal escape to immerse yourself in such enchanting settings. From its sweet, refreshing fruit to its versatile wood and fibres, every part of the coconut palm serves a purpose, embodying the resilience and resourcefulness of life here as well.
A riot of colour amidst the lush foliage, the Chinese hibiscus adds a vibrant infusion of red, orange, pink, or yellow to the natural landscape of the islands. With its large, showy flowers, this tropical beauty commands attention wherever it blooms, casting a spell of tropical enchantment over its surroundings. Whether adorning gardens, walkways, or seaside landscapes, the Chinese hibiscus delights the senses and offers a visual feast for nature lovers looking to enjoy the captivating sights of the diverse flora in Maldives.
Renowned for its culinary and medicinal uses, the pandan plant is a versatile and valuable species found throughout the Maldives. It is known for its long, slender leaves that have a distinctive aroma; the leaves of this tropical plant are often used to flavour traditional local dishes and infuse them with their unique fragrance. Beyond its culinary applications, the pandan plant also holds cultural significance, and its fruit is sometimes used as an ingredient to make various dishes served at festivals and special events.
A true believer that the pen is a mighty weapon, ventures into reaching the minds of every reader with the earnest hope of leaving an indelible stream of thought.
A travel writer who has a passion for fashion and a deep interest in admiring new and exotic attractions around the world.
