Barbados Blooms: Coconut Trees

Coconut trees are one of the more popular trees found in Barbados. It has been said that the coconut tree symoblizes romance in the tropics, and with grace and beauty as they sway in the Caribbean air, we can see why! In the past, the coconut trees were mainly found scattered about the coastal areas of Barbados, and that is probably because of their tolerance to the salty air. Nowadays, with so many uses for coconuts, they are found inland as well. In the olden days, the coconut oil was used to assist with the production of margarine. Nowadays, soybean oil has replaced that, but coconuts are still used for many other things, including coconut water, coconut bread, coconut milk, coconut oil, sugar cakes, and the husks can be used as a medium for growing anthuriums and orchids. These are just a few of the many uses, but the coconuts that come from the tall and slender coconut trees are very high in demand these days. In fact, one day you might spot a local climbing up to the top of the tree to reap these coconuts! It is quite interesting to watch how quickly the pros can get up there, and with such ease, too! Driving along the highway of Barbados, you will more than likely see coconut vendors on the side of the road selling their fresh coconut water and jelly! It is definitely worth trying some of the delicious water straight from the coconut – a truly tropical, Bajan experience!