- LANTAU NEWS | WHAT’S HAPPENING ISLAND WIDE -
ISLAND IN BLOOM Repor ting & p hotos by Paul M el so m
n spring and early summer, many of Lantau’s native trees and shrubs are in Iissue bloom, making it a wonderful time to walk the hills. Deforestation remains an in Lantau but these days more native trees are being planted – planting many species of native trees significantly enhances the biodiversity, reduces erosion and makes the hills more beautiful.
It’s easier to identify many native trees and plants when they are flowering. Here are six for you to recognise and enjoy on your walks.
Chestnut Oak
(Castanopsis fissa)
This tree stands out from afar in the forest canopy and it’s a sight to see in April because of its wonderful display of spiky, cream-coloured flowers.
Sweet Viburnum
(Viburnum odoratissimum)
Get up close to this plant in April to enjoy the sweet and distinctive fragrance that emanates from its conical cluster of small white flowers.
Formosa Ash
(Fraxinus griffithii)
This tree can only be found in Hong Kong growing naturally in Lantau. It blooms in April, when its fantastic cream feathers pierce the sky.
Rose Myrtle
(Rhodomyrtus tomentosa)
Climb 100 metres into the hills in May to appreciate the thousands of rose-pink flowers put forth by this very common but beautiful shrub.
Pond Spice (Litsea glutinosa)
In bloom from May, this tree has distinctive mustard-coloured flowers and produces blue/black berries which birds like to feed on in winter.
Microcos
(Microcos nervosa)
The locals call this tree ‘Rag Leaf’ because the leaves hang like rags from its branches. The small yellow flowers bloom in June.
Horticulturalist Paul Melsom of Eagleowl on Lantau (eagleowlonlantau1@gmail.com) is an expert in native tree landscape restoration; he takes student groups on local eco-walks, and teaches ecological gardening.
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LIFE ON LANTAU | APRIL/MAY 2021
