Jamaica Portland Ridge

Portland Ridge is a dry peninsula in the south of the Parish "Clarendon". Numerous plants can be conveniently studied along the coastal road.The red mangrove (Rhizophora mangle) serves as an example. The mangroves carry so-called propagules, 10 to 15 cm long. They are sexually produced young plants attached to the mother plant. They finally fall off and drift in water until they strand at a favorable site, develop roots and give rise to a new plant. One can speak of the red mangrove as of a viviparous plant. Along the road occurs also the Jamaican national flower Lignum vitae (Guijacum officinale) and the seaside mahoe (Thespesia populnea) among others.

This is a spot for persons interested in the Natural History of tropical islands such as Jamaica. On a scouting trip in April 2017, a total of 46 plant species, many of them flowering, have been seen along the coastal of Portland Ridge besides some wading birds. Macro and telephoto lens (400 mm +) are a good choice.

The road is not paved and an SUV is certainly helpful. The mudflats do not support a car. So, stay on the road. There is not much shade. Bring plenty of drinking water.