The national tree of Jamaica the blue mahoe is endemic to Jamaica and Cuba. However, for reforestation, aesthetic and practical purposes, it has been introduced to several other areas. The name blue mahoe is inspired by blue-green bands of colour in lumber produced from the tree. Other common names of the tree include majagua and mountain mahoe, but it can be more easily traced by its scientific name hibiscus elatus. This name reveals its relation to other plants in the genus hibiscus. But its relation is not only discernable by name; it is also reflected through certain discernable features such as region, leaves and flower. However, its size sets it apart from what is usually imagined to be a hibiscus plant. It is much larger than your typical hibiscus, which is alluded to by its name elatus.
Blue mahoe is an evergreen tree with a straight trunk and rough bark that gets to over 15 meters in height. In Jamaica, its primary range is in the wetter hillier interior of the north-eastern area of the island. It strives best in the micro-climate these areas provide but you might come across them in other areas as they are planted in other areas for shade and aesthetic reasons. The leaves are broad and leathery with a heart shape. The flowers are characteristically hibiscus in appearance. i.e. five petals, trumpet shaped and very vibrant.
Family: Malvaceae
Genus: Hibiscus
Species: Hibiscus elatus
