Libidibia ferrea (Brazilian Ironwood)

Native to eastern Brazil, this tree can reach about 50 to 65 feet tall and has a spreading, umbrella-like crown of fine, compound foliage. Its smooth bark peels in patches, exposing a mottled combination of ivory, light gray, and darker tones. Small yellow flowers have red markings on the upper petals and grow in clusters. Thick woody pods turn brown as they mature. The dense timber has been used for furniture and other woodwork. It is cultivated as an ornamental shade tree beyond its native range. It tolerates drought once established. Its hard seed coats need scarification to encourage germination. Photographed in Colombia.