Mesua ferrea

Native to tropical South and Southeast Asia, this evergreen rainforest tree can reach about 100 feet tall and develops a dense, conical crown. Large, fragrant flowers have four fleshy white petals surrounding numerous yellow to orange stamens. The flowers last for a single day. Bees pollinate the flowers, which are also used in perfume, incense and soap. Its extremely dense, durable wood is used for heavy construction, boat building and tool handles. It is Sri Lanka’s national tree. Photographed in Colombia.