Catch and Keep: A Caribbean Native Shrub Worth Discovering
Meet catch and keep (Senegalia westiana), a fascinating native shrub that calls the warm Caribbean islands of Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands home. While this plant might not be as well-known as some of its flashier tropical cousins, it offers unique value for gardeners looking to embrace truly local flora in these island regions.
What’s in a Name?
The botanical name Senegalia westiana might sound like quite a mouthful, but the common name catch and keep hints at this plant’s tenacious nature. You might also encounter this shrub listed under its former scientific names, including Acacia retusa, Acacia riparia, or Acacia westiana, as plant classifications have evolved over time.
Where Does Catch and Keep Call Home?
This perennial shrub is a true Caribbean native, naturally occurring in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. If you’re gardening in these tropical paradise locations, you’re looking at a plant that has spent countless generations adapting to your local climate and conditions.
Getting to Know This Island Shrub
Catch and keep grows as a multi-stemmed woody shrub, typically staying under 13-16 feet tall, though it can occasionally stretch taller depending on growing conditions. Like many shrubs, it develops several stems from or near ground level, creating a naturally full, bushy appearance that can add structure and year-round interest to island gardens.
Why Consider Catch and Keep for Your Garden?
If you’re gardening in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, here are compelling reasons to give this native a try:
- True native heritage: Supporting local ecosystems by choosing plants that evolved in your region
- Climate adapted: Naturally suited to handle the tropical conditions of its native range
- Low maintenance potential: Native plants typically require less intervention once established
- Unique garden element: An opportunity to grow something truly local that many gardeners overlook
The Reality Check: Limited Information Available
Here’s where we need to be honest – detailed cultivation information for Senegalia westiana is surprisingly scarce in readily available gardening resources. This speaks to both the plant’s rarity in commercial cultivation and the need for more documentation of Caribbean native species.
General Growing Guidance
While specific care instructions are limited, we can make educated assumptions based on its native habitat and plant family:
- Climate needs: Tropical to subtropical conditions (essentially frost-free zones)
- Likely sun preference: Full to partial sun, typical for many Senegalia species
- Soil adaptability: Probably tolerant of various soil types, as many legumes are
- Water needs: Moderate, once established
A Word of Caution and Opportunity
Before planting catch and keep, try to source it from reputable native plant nurseries in Puerto Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands. Given the limited information available about this species, it’s possible it may be uncommon even within its native range. Responsible sourcing helps ensure you’re not impacting wild populations.
The Bottom Line
Catch and keep represents an intriguing opportunity for adventurous gardeners in Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands to grow a truly local native species. While the lack of detailed growing information means you’ll be somewhat pioneering in your approach, the reward could be supporting local biodiversity while adding a unique element to your garden.
If you’re not in this plant’s native range, consider exploring native shrubs from your own region instead. Every area has its own catch and keep – sometimes you just need to look a little harder to find them!
