This distinctive small tree is Divi Divi, Libidibia coriaria. Older references may list it as Caesalpinia coriaria, but Libidibia coriaria is now the accepted botanical name. It belongs to the legume family, Fabaceae, and is native to the Caribbean, Central America and northern South America.

Divi Divi usually grows as a large shrub or small tree, often with a broad, irregular crown. In exposed coastal locations, strong trade winds may shape the trunk and branches so dramatically that the entire tree appears to lean in one direction.

That windswept form has made the Divi Divi one of the most recognizable trees of the southern Caribbean, especially on islands such as Aruba, Curaçao and Bonaire. However, the tree does not naturally point in one fixed compass direction; its shape reflects the prevailing local winds.

The leaves are compound and finely divided into many small leaflets. This delicate foliage gives the crown a light, feathery appearance and helps reduce water loss in hot, dry conditions.

The flowers are small, pale yellow or greenish-yellow and appear in short clusters. They attract insects, especially bees, which carry pollen between the blossoms.

The most distinctive feature is the fruit. Divi Divi produces thick, dark brown pods that become strongly curved or twisted as they mature. Unlike many legume pods, they do not simply split open along their sides. Their curled, contorted form makes the species easy to recognize when fruit is present.

These pods are extremely rich in tannins. For centuries, they were harvested commercially and used in tanning leather, producing dyes and making inks. At one time, Divi Divi pods were an important export from parts of the Caribbean.

The tree is well adapted to intense sunlight, drought, salt spray and poor soils. Its small leaflets, deep roots and irregular growth allow it to survive in places where many larger, thirstier trees would struggle.

Divi Divi is therefore both a botanical and cultural landmark. Its feathery leaves and twisted pods are interesting at close range, while its bent, windswept silhouette tells the larger story of life in a dry and constantly wind-shaped Caribbean landscape.