The Jamaican Coat of Arms
National Flower, Tree, Fruit and Bird
When considering an appropriate Coat of Arms for an independent Jamaica, both the Government and the Opposition agreed that the existing Arms, granted to Jamaica in 1661 under Royal Warrant and partially revised in 1957, held significant historical value and should be retained.
Originally designed by William Sancroft, who later became Archbishop of Canterbury, the Arms uniquely feature the Royal Helmet and Mantlings. However, the design is also attributed to William Juxon, the Archbishop of Canterbury in 1661. A historical account from 1684 mentions the "present Archbishop of Canterbury" designing the Arms, referring to Sancroft who became Archbishop in 1677.
The grant of arms was officially made in February 1662. Due to the calendar change in 1752, what was then considered 1661 is now recognized as 1662.
The original Latin motto, "Indus Uterque Serviet Uni," was changed to English: "Out of Many, One People." The Arms depict a male and female Taino (Arawak) standing on either side of a shield bearing a red cross with five golden pineapples. The crest is a Jamaican crocodile atop the Royal Helmet and Mantlings.
From the College of Arms, London:
Arms: Argent on a Cross Gules five pine-apples slipped OR.
Crest: Upon a Royal Helmet mantled OR doubled Ermine, on a Wreath Argent and Gules, upon a Log fessewise, a Crocodile Proper.
Supporters: On the dexter side, a West Indian Native Woman holding a Basket of Fruits; on the sinister side, a West Indian Native Man holding a Bow.
Changes in the Coat of Arms
There have been three officially recorded changes to the Jamaican Coat of Arms: in 1692, 1957, and 1962. Unauthorized use of the Coat of Arms is prohibited without official permission from the Prime Minister's Office.
Although the Supporters are described in natural colors, the approved color sketch shows red and white feathered headdresses and skirts.
National Flower: Lignum Vitae
The Lignum Vitae (Guiacum officinale) is indigenous to Jamaica and was discovered by Christopher Columbus. Named "Wood of Life" for its medicinal properties, it thrives in dry woodlands along the island's coasts. The wood, known for its strength and ornamental appeal, is used in ship propeller shaft bearings and for making curios.
The Blue Mahoe (Hibiscus elatus) is a primary economic timber in Jamaica, valued for reforestation and cabinet timber. Its attractive blue-green wood with variegated yellow streaks is highly polished and used locally and internationally
Ackee (Blighia sapida), originally from West Africa, was introduced to Jamaica in 1778. It grows abundantly, producing edible fruit recognized only in Jamaica. Captain William Bligh of "Mutiny on the Bounty" fame brought the plant to England in 1793, giving it its botanical name. The name "Ackee" derives from "Ankye," from the Twi language of Ghana.
The Doctor Bird (Trochilus polytmus), or Swallowtail Hummingbird, is native to Jamaica and known for its iridescent feathers. It is one of 320 hummingbird species and has been celebrated in Jamaican folklore and song for decades.
These national symbols—the Lignum Vitae, Blue Mahoe, Ackee, and Doctor Bird—are encouraged for use in souvenirs, decoration, planting, and design.