North Side, Grand Cayman — The Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park is pleased to announce the official launch of its vibrant Native Plant Collection, now on display and available for purchase at the Park’s Kirkland Nixon Visitor Centre. This thoughtfully curated collection showcases a diverse array of Cayman’s native flora, ranging from eye-catching ornamental blooms ideal for home gardens to species that play a vital role in supporting local wildlife and preserving critical habitats for endemic animals.
The launch has been made possible through the support of the Ministry of Health, Environment and Sustainability (MHES), which last year secured a Darwin Plus Local Grant to support the propagation of native plants at the Botanic Park. Darwin Plus, part of the UK Government’s Biodiversity Challenge Fund, aims to deliver long-term outcomes for biodiversity conservation and climate change resilience across the UK Overseas Territories. Through the grant, strategic improvements have been made to the Park’s nursery facilities, enabling the horticultural team to grow a minimum of 250 plants across at least 10 native species.
To further engage the community, a featured native plant will be highlighted weekly on the Park’s social media channels, offering insights into its unique characteristics and practical landscaping applications. Designed to inspire conservation and promote sustainable landscaping, the Native Collection provides residents with an opportunity to incorporate indigenous species into their outdoor spaces, helping to maintain biodiversity and protect the Cayman Islands’ unique ecosystems. Comprehensive plant care sheets are available with each purchase, offering guidance on plant selection, maintenance, and the environmental benefits of choosing native species.
A selection of native plants is now available for viewing and purchase during regular Visitor Centre hours, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm. Additional species will be released and announced weekly as they become available. Please note that all plants are offered subject to availability.
Visit often to discover new additions to the collection and support the conservation of Cayman’s native flora. For more information, please visit the Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park or contact the Visitor Centre directly at info@botanic-park.ky