Myrcianthes fragrans

Native from Florida through tropical America, it is an aromatic shrub or small tree. Its densely branching crown carries clusters of small fragrant white flowers. Numerous slender stamens extend beyond the petals, giving the blossoms a delicate brush-like appearance. Its orange to red berries provide food for birds, while the dense canopy offers shelter. Mature plants have reddish, flaking bark and tolerate salt spray. Photographed in Colombia.