Lonchocarpus sericeus

Native from southern Mexico through tropical America and from western tropical Africa to Angola, it is a tree often found near water. Its fragrant, pale purple flowers can appear while the tree is leafless. The flattened seed pods remain closed at maturity and may persist on the branches for months. In Ghana, the species has been planted for shade, and its tough, water-resistant wood has been used in construction and for hoe handles. Photographed in the department of Magdalena, Colombia.