Ouratea theophrasta

Native to southeastern Mexico and Guatemala, with a separate native occurrence in southeastern Brazil, this tropical tree belongs to the ochna family. Branching sprays of small, bright yellow flowers rise among glossy green foliage. Each flower has five spreading petals and ten stamens. The large leaves can reach about twenty inches long. It grows in moist tropical habitats and is also cultivated in botanical gardens for its dense flower displays and attractive foliage. It is classified as Critically Endangered on the IUCN Red List. Photographed in Florida.