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Wednesday 22 OctOber 2025 LOCAL
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Episode CCCXXVI-326
Rooted in Aruba: Flora, Identity, and the Call to Preserve
The narrative of Etnia Nativa—centered on Aruba’s
native ethnicity—highlights the importance of recov-
ering and preserving the island’s maternal cultural
identity and the natural heritage we’ve inherited, in-
cluding its iconic rocks.
We share an authentic native perspective, educate
the public, and inspire readers to adopt an ‘island
caretaker mindset.’
In this episode, we explore Aruba’s native cacti.
Aruba’s flora paints the island with a rugged yet cap-
tivating beauty. From the diverse agave species to
the towering candelabra cacti and low-lying Opun-
tia bushes, native vegetation forms the backbone of
the island’s landscape. These plants do far more than
shape the scenery—they provide essential habitats
for native animals, form wildlife corridors, prevent ero-
sion by anchoring the soil after rain, and help mitigate species of Acanthocereus, known lo- land’s resilience and natural beauty.
the greenhouse effect. cally as Cushicuri or Cadushi di Cole- By understanding and protecting
Despite suffering severe decline since colonial times, bra (Snake Cactus), Pereskia guama- these native plants, especially its suc-
Aruba’s arid climate still nurtures a surprisingly rich va- cho, an unusual cactus with leaves, culents, we can ensure that Aruba’s
riety of native plant species. These resilient plants are known as Asufro phosphorus. unique landscapes continue to thrive
well adapted to the island’s dry, rocky terrain and for generations to come.
have played a vital role in its ecological, social, and In addition, the island hosts around
cultural sustainability. eight species of Agave, several Brome- Stay tuned for more as we dive deep-
Aruba’s native flora is deeply woven into the island’s liads, and a wide variety of xerophytic er into the world of Aruba’s succulents
cultural fabric. These plants are not merely artistic plants—all perfectly adapted to Aru- in this new episode—uncovering their
silhouettes on the sunset—they are living symbols of ba’s dry climate. hidden stories, ecological importance,
national identity. Preserving this entire species means and cultural significance.
protecting the island’s natural heritage for future gen- Preserving Aruba’s Green Legacy Explore Aruba’s Roots at Etnia Nativa
erations. The thorny bushes, hardy trees, and iconic If you’ve enjoyed discovering our an-
cacti may not be abundant in species or variety, but Aruba’s wild flora is more than a back- cestral stories and want to delve deep-
their presence is unmistakable and essential. drop—it’s a living testament to the is- er into the true identity of the Aruban
people, we invite you to experience
Among them, succulents—especially cacti—hold a Etnia Nativa—the Caribbean’s only
prominent place. Their fruits and night-blooming flow- “living museum” of its kind, celebrat-
ers provide critical nourishment for a wide range of lo- ing the island’s rich mestizaje (cultural
cal wildlife, including birds, bats, reptiles, moths, and blending).q
bees. Their seeds are dispersed naturally by wind and
wildlife, ensuring the continuation of their species.
Three species of candelabra (or organ pipe) cacti Founded in 1994, Etnia Nativa has
dominate Aruba’s wild landscape: been a cultural pioneer—co-founding
Aruba’s National Park, the Archaeo-
Stenocereus griseus – This cactus grows straight up, logical Museum, artisan foundations,
branching near the base. Its thorns are arranged in and several grassroots initiatives dedi-
neat rosettes, giving it a symmetrical appearance. cated to heritage and conservation.
But Etnia Nativa isn’t just a place — it’s
Cereus repandus – Known locally as Breba, this is the a gateway. Quietly tucked away near
largest of the three. It resembles a tree more than a the high-rise hotels, this private resi-
typical cactus, branching out higher from the ground. dence also serves as a cultural sanc-
Its thorns form dense, outward-pointing rows. tuary, unknown to most tourists. And
that’s part of its magic. Intentionally
Pilosocereus lanuginosus – Locally called Cadushi di exclusive, it welcomes only those with
Plushi, this cactus stands out with its long white hairs a genuine curiosity and a thirst for au-
and yellow prickles at the tips of its branches. thentic discovery.
These cacti bloom under the cover of night, feeding Connect with the spirit and soul of Aru-
nectar-hungry bats and birds and playing a vital role ba’s ancient heritage through a one-
in maintaining Aruba’s delicate ecosystem. of-a-kind experience.
Aruba is also home of two varieties of melon cactus, WhatsApp: +297 592 2702 or
four species of Opuntia, commonly called Tuna, one Email: etnianativa03@gmail.com
