Violet Tree

Scientific name: Phlebotaenia cowellii

POWO Status: Not listed.

It is a rare tree found at low to middle elevations in the U.S. Virgin Islands. Specifically, it’s a tree that can grow to a height of 30 to 40 feet, according to the Center for Plant Conservation. 

IUCN Red List threat level: Near Threatened

GPS Location: 17° 42′ 59.89″ N, 64° 49′ 49.60″ W

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Observations:

Phenological Markers – Violet Tree (Phlebotaenia cowellii)

Common Name: Violet Tree
Scientific Name: Phlebotaenia cowellii
Family: Polygalaceae
Origin: Caribbean native (notably Puerto Rico and Hispaniola)
Form: Shrub or small tree, 1–3 meters in height, multi-stemmed habit

Annual Phenological Cycle

PhenophaseTypical Timing (St. Croix – Lowland Tropical)Field Notes
Leaf FlushApril – JuneFresh foliage appears at the start of the rainy season. New leaves are light green and thin.
FloweringJuly – OctoberSmall, violet to reddish-purple flowers emerge in loose clusters.
Fruit DevelopmentAugust – NovemberFlat, dry seed capsules follow flowering. May persist on branches into dry season.
Leaf Drop (Partial)February – March (dry season)Partial deciduousness observed during dry spells; may retain core canopy.
DormancyMarch – April (minimal growth)Growth pauses briefly before wet season flush.

Identification Notes

  • Bark is smooth, grey-brown.
  • Flowers have a distinct violet hue, giving rise to the common name.
  • Typically found in disturbed habitats or limestone scrub.
  • Rare in cultivation but of interest for conservation plantings.
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