Meaning
The national tree of Jamaica (Talipariti elatum) — a tall hardwood prized for its beautiful blue-green-streaked timber, used in fine furniture, carvings, bowls, and craftwork. Its inner bark was traditionally stripped to make rope and tie material ('mahoe' bark). Handsome, strong, and distinctly Jamaican, the blue mahoe stands as a national emblem, and its lovely grained wood is a favourite of the island's woodworkers, turning up in the carved souvenirs and the fine pieces that show off one of Jamaica's finest native trees.
Examples
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Di craftsman carve di bowl outta blue mahoe.
The craftsman carved the bowl out of blue mahoe.
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Blue mahoe a Jamaica national tree.
Blue mahoe is Jamaica's national tree.
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Dem plant blue mahoe fi timber an fi shade.
They plant blue mahoe for timber and for shade.
Origin
'Mahoe' comes via Taíno/Spanish for the hibiscus-family tree; 'blue' for the blue-green streaks in its cut wood. Declared Jamaica's national tree.
How it’s used
A national symbol of Jamaica, valued for its distinctive timber and craft use.