|
|
|
|
The Doctor Bird or Swallow -Tail Humming Bird |
The swallowtail humming bird (Trochilus polytmus), also called the "Doctor Bird", lives only in Jamaica and is one of the most outstanding of the 320 species of humming birds. It is well to note that the beautiful feathers of these birds have no counterpart in the entire bird population and produce iridescent colours characteristic only of that family. The Doctor Bird has been immortalised for many decades in Jamaican folklore and songs.
|
 |
|
Lignum Vitae |
 |
Lignum Vitae (Giacum officinale) is indigenous to Jamaica and was found here by Christopher Columbus. It is though that the name "Wood of Life" was adopted because of its medicinal qualities. The tree grows best in the dry woodlands along both the North and the South coasts of the island. In addition to shedding an attractive blue flower, the plant itself is extremely ornamental. The wood is used for propeller shaft bearings in nearly all the ships sailing the Seven Seas, and because of this in shipyards, the Lignum Vitae and Jamaica are closely associated. The wood is also used in the manufacture of curios, sought after by visitors and nationals alike. There is also a thriving
export trade.
|
|
The Blue Mahoe |
Mahoe (Hibiscus elatus) has been regarded as one of Jamaica's primary economic timbers. It is currently much used for re–afforestation and is a valuable source of cabinet timber. Very attractive blue–green colour with variegated yellow intrusions, it is capable of taking a high polish showing to advantage the variety of grain and colour tones. The trade, local and international, consumes annually, many thousands of feet of this beautiful timber. |
 |
|
|
|
