Belize Coat of Arms: Meaning of the People, Tools, Tree & Motto
Explore every part of the Belize coat of arms: the two Belizean supporters, timber tools, sailing ship, mahogany tree, 50-leaf wreath and ‘Under the Shade I Flourish’ motto.
What is on the Belize coat of arms?
The 2025 National Symbols Act divides the shield into three sections. The lower section shows a ship at sea under full sail. The two upper sections show tools of the timber industry: a paddle and squaring axe on the left, and a beating axe and saw on the right.
Who are the two supporters?
The legal description identifies a Mestizo-Belizean supporter on the left holding a beating axe and an Afro-Belizean supporter on the right holding a paddle.
The two figures frame the shield and connect the national emblem with the human labour behind Belize’s timber and maritime history.
Why is there a mahogany tree?
A mahogany tree rises above the shield on a grassy mount. Mahogany was historically central to Belize’s forestry economy, which is why both the tree and timber-working tools dominate the emblem.
What does “Sub Umbra Floreo” mean?
The scroll below the shield carries the Latin motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO, which the 2025 Act translates as “Under the Shade I Flourish.”
Why is the coat of arms surrounded by 50 leaves?
The Act states that a wreath of fifty leaves encircles the coat of arms and symbolizes 1950, when Belizeans began the modern struggle for independence.
Belize coat of arms FAQ
What tools are shown?
A paddle, squaring axe, beating axe and saw.
What does the mahogany tree represent?
Belize’s historic timber economy.
What does the motto mean?
“Under the Shade I Flourish.”
Why are there 50 leaves?
They represent 1950 and the beginning of the modern independence movement.
Belize National Symbols Act 2025 — Schedule IV
Government/NICH — Coat of Arms Guidelines
