Handroanthus chrysotrichus (Golden Trumpet Tree)

Native to Brazil and northeastern Argentina, this deciduous to partly evergreen tree develops a rounded, spreading crown. Opposite compound leaves divide into five leaflets, with young growth covered in golden hairs and older foliage silvery green above and fuzzy tan beneath. Dense clusters of bright yellow, trumpet-shaped flowers appear at the branch tips, often producing the strongest display during a brief leafless period. Long, brown, hairy seed capsules follow the blossoms. Widely planted as a street and garden tree, it is moderately drought-tolerant once established. Its branches become brittle with age and can break in strong winds. It has become sparingly naturalized in Florida. Photographed in Colombia.