Aglaia odorata (Chinese Perfume Plant)

Native from southern China through Southeast Asia to Peninsular Malaysia, this evergreen shrub or small tree develops a densely branched crown. Its tiny, strongly fragrant yellow flowers grow in branching clusters in the leaf axils. Male and female flowers occur on separate plants. The rounded to egg-shaped fruits remain closed at maturity, with fleshy tissue surrounding the seeds. Dried flowers and buds are traditionally added to tea for their fragrance. The flowers provide nectar for butterflies. It is grown ornamentally as a hedge or bonsai. Photographed in Colombia.