Bougainvillea blooms signal Caribbean holiday season

Bougainvillea plants are in bloom across the US Virgin Islands, marking the traditional start of the holiday season in the Caribbean.

The flowering shrubs are known for their signature bright red leaves, which have become a seasonal symbol in the region. While red remains the most popular variety, bougainvillea also comes in pink, purple and white.

The plants can be spotted throughout the islands, including in neighbourhoods like Estate Strawberry on St. Croix, where they add colour to residential gardens and public spaces as temperatures begin to cool and the festive period approaches.