JAMAICAN NATIONAL SYMBOLS
The Coat of Arms
The Jamaican Coat of Arms features a Taino male and female standing on either side of the shield, which also bears a red cross with five golden pineapples. The crest also has a Jamaica crocodile mounted on the Royal Helmet of the British monarchy. The motto of Jamaica “Out of Many, One People” is embedded at the bottom of the Coat of Arms.
The Jamaican Flag
The Jamaican Flag was first unfurled and hoisted on August 6, 1962, as a symbol of Jamaica’s political independence from Britain. The gold in the flag represents the shining sun, the green the nature and land and the black represents the strong and creative nature of the people. The flag is to be regarded as a sacred emblem of the nation and true reverence and devotion should be paid by all citizens.
The National Fruit-Ackee
Ackee is the national fruit of Jamaica. It is also known as “Blighia Sapida”. Ackee is not indigenous to Jamaica, but was brought here from West Africa during the period of slavery. Ackee is now abundant in Jamaica with trees growing as high as 50ft. These trees bear large red and yellow fruit which when ripe burst revealing the yellow aril which is the edible fruit we call ackee. When paired with saltfish, we have the National Dish of Jamaica. More can be read about the National Dish at (https://montegobayculturalcentre.org/resource/the-jamaican-national-dish/).
The National Bird: The Doctor Bird
The Doctor Bird or Swallow Tail Humming Bird is known scientifically as “Trochilus polytmus” is one species of the Hummingbird Family. They usually have bright colors/feathers and two long tails which stream behind when he flies. The Arawak’s believed that these birds had magical powers.
The National Flower: Lignum Vitae
The flower was said to have been discovered by Christopher Columbus. The flowers grow best in dry woodland areas and are said to grow best in tropical climates.
The plant produces a blue flower and orange-yellow fruit. The tree has many medicinal properties and was exported in the 16th century and used as a remedy for gout.
The wood from the tree is sometimes used for furniture due to its sturdiness and even used to make police batons.
The National Tree: Blue Mahoe
The Blue Mahoe is the national tree of Jamaica and is indigenous to the island. It grows rapidly, even up to 66ft in height or more. The name Mahoe is derived from a Carib Indian word and the blue refers to the streaks which are engraved in the wood. The tree produces a hibiscus-like flower which changes colour as the tree matures. The Mahoe is durable and is used in cabinet making.
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