Thanks once again to Jackie Chambers for a photograph and a write-up.
Calycophyllum candidissimum is native to southern Mexico, Cuba, and Central & South America. It has the distinction of being the national tree of Nicaragua, where it has the common name El Madroño. Other common names include degami (or dagame) and lemonwood, which refers to the light brown yellow colour of the wood.
This small to medium size hardwood tree can reach 12-15m in height. For an idea of size and growth habit, see the "tree form" photographs on this website.
The species name candisissimum means "very white" and must refer to the showy flower clusters produced in December and January. The white leaf-like forms beneath the flowers are actually bracts and are a component of the flower cluster. Their role is to attract pollinators.
The fruit is a brown capsule that splits open once it is mature (January - May). Leaves are a dark green and simple in an opposite arrangement along the stem. The leaves may be shed during periods of drought. The link above regarding flower clusters also provides detailed photos of leaves, capsules and seeds.
Calycophyllum candidissimum is used in archery, as it is apparently a very good wood for making bows.
Oh gosh. A winter flower. Is it able tp be grown in WA state onthe wet side. How lovely to have flowers in the winter. Do they smell nice? Do the lend themselves to vases?
lovely lovely
i do not think i have been aware of
this tree in my part of florida
perhaps further south and i am
the west coast
thank you for the links
i enjoy the flicker group
I have several madroños in my yard in Managua, Nicaragua. They do bloom around Christmas and we use the blossomed boughs as decoration during the season festivities. The fragrance of the flowers is subtle and very nice. Although my madroños bloom in due time, starting two or three years ago, the scent they emmit has become almost imperceptible. Is there some one around who could give me a hint about why is that happening? And what would be the remedy for that? I will appreciate it. Thanks.