In Bangladesh, the months of Falgun and Chaitra mark the vibrant spring season. During this time, nature awakens from the winter’s dormancy, painting the landscape with fresh colors. One such striking sight in Cox’s Bazar’s Marine Drive is the blooming of the Thorny Mandar flowers.
While several species of mandar trees exist in Bangladesh, the one most familiar to the people of Cox’s Bazar is the thorny mandar (Erythrina fusca). With the arrival of spring, birds build nests in its branches and feast on the light, sweet nectar of its flowers. Every day, visitors flock to Marine Drive to immerse themselves in nature’s beauty, often captivated by the radiant blossoms of the thorny mandar.
This tree is characterized by its sturdy trunk, pale gray branches, and abundant dark-colored thorns covering its bark. It is believed to be native to Bangladesh and Myanmar, adding to its rich botanical heritage.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
