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Bonaire Blooms
Covering the hillsides, particularly in the northern parts of the island, are blooming Brasilwood or Dyewood trees (Latin name Haematoxylon brasiletto). This year the flowering has been spectacular with massive patches of yellow blooms. This relatively short tree, tough looking with its deep grooves in the branches and short heavy thorns, is a gift of beauty to the island when it blooms. Its small stature and strong wood brave the arid climate and strong winds, and when many other plants and trees have lost their leaves and nearly given up, the Brasilwood bursts into bloom. This is a tree with a positive attitude.
The flowers grow together in tight clusters, giving it the appearance of the northern forsythia.  The Brasilwood trees once covered Bonaire, but when it was discovered that their roots could produce a fine quality red dye not only for fabric but for stain cultures, they were nearly wiped out.  Even now where Brasilwood are cleared, the less desirable Cossie tree with its long sharp thorns takes over and makes it impossible for any of the original vegetation to come back.
But right now enough Brazils are left for you to enjoy the blooming and appreciate the fine qualities of this sturdy little tree.  L.D.

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