In the midst of this unprecedented, challenging time of Covid-19, the entire world has been forced to wind down and Mother Nature is finally able to take a deep breath.
On today’s 50th anniversary of Earth Day (April 22, 2020), we are invited more than ever to reflect, to stand still, and appreciate our planet’s precious biosphere, especially the natural wonders we can find around our homes and gardens while we stay safe until we can travel again.
In Panama, the Guayacan Trumpet Tree (Tabebuia guayacan) is blooming already for the second time this year, a truly unique happening!
Every March, the forest landscape bursts with color as the Guayacan trees start to bloom, producing a full crown of golden, tubular-shaped flowers. It is believed by locals that the Yellow Tabebuia Tree presages the coming green season—they are said to bloom one month before the rains start. This large tree, up to 50 meters tall, is native to Central and South America. It sheds its leaves during the dry season, then flowers before leafing out again. The flowering period for each individual tree is abrupt and very short; flowers drop after only 1 or 2 days. After flowering, it bears fruit at the end of March—fruits are 25-60 cm long, green and resemble bean pods. Inside the fruits are small, winged seeds. The wood is very hard, heavy and dark; it is valued and used for making railway ties, flooring and boats. Furthermore, this tree also has medicinal properties. A tea made from the leaves can provide relief for urinary tract and kidney problems, and is a treatment for tuberculosis. The Guayacan Trumpet Tree is found from Mexico to Colombia, Venezuela and Peru. It is most common in Costa Rica and Panama.
Let’s protect, preserve and foster the environment and the people around us.
Stay safe for now, and we look forward to welcoming you soon again to Panama!
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