Cactus on Hassel Island
After years of abandonment without regular land maintenance, invasive and exotic species proliferated on Hassel Island, threatening the native vegetation. The NPS and the St. Thomas Historical Trust are working hard to eliminate the invasive species, cultivate native plants, and restore balance to Hassel Island’s ecosystem.
While visiting Hassel Island, keep an eye out for a few noticeable Native Species:
Turk’s cap cactus, Melocactus intortus
Seagrape, Coccoloba uvifera
Century plant, Agave missionum
White frangipani blossom, Plumeria alba
Look out for Christmas Bush, and steer clear!
A poisonous plant, do not touch!
*Image courtesy of www.seestjohn.com