Hildegardia cubensis (Guana)

Endemic to Cuba, this tree grows in semideciduous forest and can reach sixty-six feet tall. Its large, nearly rounded leaves have deeply heart-shaped bases, smooth margins, and hairy undersides. Many-flowered clusters develop near the ends of branches. The yellow-orange flowers lack petals; their bell-shaped calyces divide into five fleshy lobes around the reproductive column. Papery, reddish winged fruits follow flowering. The fibrous bark has traditionally supplied material for bindings and woven objects. It is endangered in the wild. Photographed in Florida.