The Maldives is home to beautiful and luscious tropical foliage. Find out more about the common flora and fauna which can be seen in and around the island nation.
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Coconut Palms
The coconut palm is one of the keystone species in the Maldives as well as being one of its principle agronomic crops. Apart from being an important food source for the natives, all most every part of the tree is utilised for various purposes. The fibre found on the husks are used to make coir ropes, mats and baskets while the hard shell is used to make souvenirs and such.
Sea Hibiscus
In the Maldives, the sea hibiscus plants can be found along the seashores bordering many Maldives 5-star hotels including the likes of Adaaran Prestige Vadoo. An evergreen tree, its flowers bloom to a vibrant orange or reddish colour adding an exotic touch to the scenery.
Beach Gardenias
Beach gardenias grow in abundance in almost all the islands especially along sand dunes and rocky coasts. The latex of the plant is often used to treat wounds in Ayurvedic medicine.
Sea Lettuce
Commonly found along the shorelines, sea lettuce is a spreading shrub that grows 7m tall. In the Maldives, it has ornamental value and is often used for soil stabilisation and for protection against the wind and sea spray.
Roland Lefevre is a travel writer who specializes in creating features on leisure as well as business travel destinations across the globe. Google+
