Photographer Ziad Joseph shares what he loves most about the Poui season in the Caribbean.
wA stunning display of yellow and pink flowers from these trees brings us to the end of the peak “pooy season” throughout the region, creating a magical carpet of fallen petals.
Yellow flowering pooy is indigenous to Trinidad and Tobago, central and northern South America. Meanwhile, the pink pooy is native to the same region, but was introduced to T&T for its decorative charm. Both yellow and pink trees belong to Bignonaceae It has been featured in families, as well as the broader Caribbean, and even the countries of Florida.
There are two types of flowering yellow pooy.Handroanthus chrysanthuspreviously Tabebuia chrysantha) and is named after the dark tree. And the yellow pooy (Handroanthus serratifoliuspreviously Tabebuia serratifolia). There are also subtle variations in the hue of the pink pooie (Tabebuia roseacommonly known as “apamat” (apamatt), some of which look almost white.
Usually, pooy trees bloom from March to May during the dry season – sometimes just like June, climate change can also affect early and slow conditions. After removing the leaves during a few weeks of intense dryness, these deciduous buds bloomed after rain, embracing the saying “April shower brings the flowers of May.”
Bird lovers are treated as if yellow orioles, parrots and crested oropendoras (cornbirds) were feasted on large bean-like seed capsules from trees.
Recent seasons, especially 2023 and 2024, are worth noting. I fondly recall from a clear perspective the display of both pink and yellow species with their spectacular “synchronized flowering” immortalized in these images. Focus (pun intended) is less common in flowers, such as the nuance of the flower itself, its shape, texture, lines, or surrounding construction or natural framing within the natural environment.
These colorful trumpet-shaped flowers feature streets, green spaces and parks in the Caribbean city, with fresh petals creating magical carpets and flying in intermittent winds. Take some time and enjoy yourself and take a look at the intimate and intricate designs of nature.
