The flora of Noronha

Flora

«Environment

In Fernando de Noronha the predominant vegetation consists of typical "agreste" (an area in northeast Brazil, a transition between the humid coast and the arid outbacks; see map of Pernambuco) species, which loose their foliage in the dry season.
In his general aspect, the vegetation presents trees in the higher areas and bushes in the flat areas.

Dry Wood

The Dry Wood, situated at the Sapata Point, represents 25% of the whole trees and bushes of the main island. This vegetation is used by the seafowl for making their nests.
The main arboreal and endemic species are: the "Gameleira" (Ficus noronhae), the "Mulungu" (Erythrina auranthiaca) and the "Burra Leiteira" (Sapium sceleratum)

Mangrove

The most important tree species
are Gameleira, Mulungu and
Burra Leiteira (image above)

The only insular mangrove area in the South Atlantic deserves special attention, has an area of 1500 m² and is situated in the Sueste bay. This mangrove is water feeded by the greatest collecting basin of the island, that is, the Maceió brook basin.

Climbing plants

Generically called as "jitiranas", the climbing plants cover native bushes and trees in the rain period. There are 14 different species.
Special attention: Some species, like the urticas, the "aveloz" and the "burra leiteira" have corrosive sap, which can be injurious to the skin.

Brought in species

With the purpose of providing food for people and animals, various fructiferous species were brought in by the colonizers and current residents. The cashew, the "cajá" and the "pinha" can be pointed out. Among the decorative species, the "flamboyant" and the white "ipê" can be pointed out.