Small clusters of colourful lantana flowers bloom along the roadside bushes of Cox’s Bazar Marine Drive, quietly capturing the attention of passers-by and tourists.
Often regarded as a wild shrub species, lantana is commonly found along unmanaged roadside vegetation. Yet its vivid colours make it visually striking against the green, hill-locked landscape of Marine Drive.
The mixture of pink, yellow, and orange blooms along the coastal highway has added a lively touch to the natural scenery, particularly enhancing the visual appeal of the surrounding hills and greenery.
Locals say the flowers are especially abundant during the monsoon and summer, when roadside bushes along the stretch become densely covered with blossoms.
Originally native to South America, lantana has now spread across many tropical and subtropical regions, including Bangladesh. The plant grows rapidly and requires minimal maintenance.
Its small flower clusters often begin in yellow or orange shades and gradually shift to pink or even purplish tones over time, creating a natural gradient of colours.
A local visitor, Hasan, said that the presence of such wildflowers alongside the scenic Marine Drive route makes travel even more enjoyable.
He noted that many travellers frequently pause their vehicles to capture photographs of the flowers and the surrounding scenery.
Nature enthusiasts say that beyond hills, forests and the sea, wild blooms form a quiet but essential part of Cox’s Bazar’s natural beauty, adding subtle charm to its coastal landscape.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
