Flowers, Madagascar

The flora of Madagascar numbers a staggering 12,000 species, with over 80% of them endemic to the island.

It has at least 1,000 species of orchids and over 200 species of palms.  The plants alone could be a lifetime of study.  Much of this is thanks to its millions of years of isolation following its separation from Africa.  Many of these species have been used by the Malagasy people for food, medicine and even construction.  Let’s have a look at some of its beautiful flowers.

Birds of Paradise – Native to South Africa, it was later introduced to Madagascar.  Its stunning, vivid orange and blue petals resemble the plumage of a bird in flight.  In no particular hurry, the plant can take several years before its first bloom, but when it does, it is a true spectacle.

 

Orchids – Madagascar’s vast number of orchids come in all sizes, from as small as 0.4in (1cm) to species with nectar spurs as long as 12in (30cm).  These orchids have evolved to be pollinated by specific animals, including long-tongued moths, bats, and even lemurs.  Madagascar is the world’s largest vanilla orchid.  Due to the absence of its natural pollinator, the flowers must by hand-pollinated, making the process labour-intensive for a successful outcome.

 

Periwinkle – This hardy flower, with its bright pink and white blossoms is highly valued for its medicinal properties.  It is used as an alternative treatment for conditions such as cancer, diabetes, and hypertension. 

 

Crown of Thorns – With its spiky stem and small, colourful bracts, this plant is a striking mix of “don’t tough, it will sting” and “look at me, I’m so pretty”.  Those spikes, though, are more than just for show.  They’re a clever deterrent to keep herbivores at bay.

Aloe vera plant – Once again, Madagascar sines with over 130 endemic species of this incredibly versatile plant, widely celebrated for its soothing properties.  From healing burns to skin care, its uses are as varied as the species that call the island home.

 

Poinciana – Also known as the flamboyant tree due to its striking orange-red flowers and fern-like leaves, it is typically planted as an ornamental tree.  Aside from its spectacular display in the summer months, its modest height provides much-needed shad from the heat.