The Hibiscus has beautiful, trumpet-shaped flowers that range from yellow to purple and everything in-between. The flowers bloom all year round and can be found as a shrub or as a small tree.
Bird of Paradise
This exotic, ornamental flower is a bit of an optical illusion. The petals resemble a bird's beak and wings, with a perch for birds to stand and pollinate.
Mesquite
This shrub is best known for its 3-inch spikes that will easily go through the sole of a shoe or through the tread of a tire. This invasive tree has taken over many parts of the island. The wood can be converted into charcoal for a tasty barbecue.
Tamarind
The Tamarind has a seed pod which can be harvested for a tangy fruit. Tamarindo is used in many recipes and sauces in Thai, Indian and Puerto Rican cuisine. You can appreciate this shady tree on sunny Vieques afternoons.
Flamboyan
The Flamboyan is one of the most colorful trees with bright red-orange flowers and brilliant green foliage. The Flamboyan can grow up to 40 ft in height. You can see some large specimens along the Esperanza Malecon.
Aloe
Aloe has long succulent green leaves with soft spines along the edge. The clear gel from within these leaves can be used to soothe sun-parched skin, and is said to treat many illnesses and deficiencies as well.
