Anacahuita (Cordia boissieri)
The Anacahuita is a deciduous tree, producing striking white flowers with yellow centers that bloom in spring or summer. It typically stands about 6 meters tall, featuring a light and delicate bark that can be easily damaged. Commonly found in the Sierra Madre Occidental, its flower holds the distinction of being the official flower of Nuevo León in Mexico.
Magnolia (Magnolia spp.)
Magnolias are predominantly found across North, Central, and South America, as well as Southeast Asia. Interestingly, they evolved even before bees existed, relying on beetles for pollination in ancient times. Typically, these trees can reach heights of up to 10 meters, and their large white flowers can measure up to 30 cm in diameter, emitting a delicate fragrance. Often used for ornamental purposes, cut flowers are frequently arranged in elegant displays at various events and gatherings.
Notable species include Mexican Magnolia (M. mexicana), also known as yoloxochitl, which was highly valued before the Spanish conquest, and M. grandiflora, commonly referred to as the Southern Magnolia.
Cazahuate (Ipomoea murucoides)
The Cazahuate is an 8-meter tall tree known for its soft, light greyish-yellow wood. It bears beautiful white flowers that can have diameters of up to 15 cm. During winter, from October to March, the tree sheds its leaves, prominently displaying its blooms. This tree is often used as a windbreak and to define property boundaries, and it is also aesthetically pleasing for public parks.
Common Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides)
The Catalpa tree is ideal for large gardens as it offers ample shade. It can grow up to 10 meters tall and features large, broad leaves. During winter, it loses its foliage, leaving behind unique seed pods that yield beautiful clusters of bell-shaped white flowers with yellow in the center, often blooming in spring around May and June depending on the local climate.
Cow’s Paw (Bauhinia forficata)
This tree is commonly found in Argentina, Brazil, Paraguay, Uruguay, Mexico, Peru, and Colombia, reaching heights of around 7 meters. Its blossoms resemble orchids, with its flowers measuring between 8 to 13 cm. These hermaphroditic flowers bloom in long axillary clusters during summer. Notably, the leaves of this tree have medicinal properties; boiling them to make an infusion is said to alleviate diabetes symptoms.
False Acacia (Robinia pseudoacacia)
The flowers of the False Acacia are small, elongated, and gathered in pendulous clusters measuring between 8 and 20 cm. They emit a captivating aroma and have become popular for their beauty. Moreover, their medicinal uses provide benefits such as being diuretic, antiseptic, and anti-inflammatory. This tree is native to the eastern United States but has been successfully introduced in various countries. For those interested in planting, seed purchasing options are available.
Mayflower or Plumeria (Plumeria rubra)
Also known as the Plumeria, the Mayflower is Nicaragua’s national flower and appears in various colors, including the signature white with a yellow center. It is often used in funeral wreaths and arrangements adorning crypts and altars. In Hawaii, leis made from these flowers are commonly given to welcome visitors. The Mayflower emits a subtle yet delightful fragrance and usually grows between 5 to 6 meters, although some specimens can reach up to 15 meters tall in ideal conditions.
Handkerchief Tree (Davidia involucrata)
The Handkerchief Tree can grow up to 25 meters tall and is celebrated for its unique white flowers that resemble handkerchiefs—round at the top and elongated downwards. This tree’s floral display creates a picturesque scene, particularly when the light wind causes the flowers to flutter gently, creating a stunning visual effect of adorned branches.
Franklin Tree (Franklinia alatamaha)
The Franklin Tree is relatively small, manageable to keep around 4 meters tall through pruning. Valued for its beautiful white flowers, this tree is often featured in parks and gardens. Its flowers, with five flat petals revealing a yellow center, are appreciated for their aesthetics. Unfortunately, this species is no longer commonly grown due to a fungal disease linked to cotton cultivation. For those interested, here are links to the seeds of Franklinia alatamaha.
Hawthorn (Crataegus monogyna)
Also known as the mayhaw, the Hawthorn produces fragrant white flowers arranged in clusters with five flat petals; it is hermaphroditic, round, and small. Historically, these flowers were used to adorn the hair and garments of brides as they symbolized fertility and prosperity.
References
- Flowers, Trees, and Other Plants. (2000). Taiwan: Editorial Everest.
- Comamala, J. T. (1984). 285 Models of Flowers and Trees: Juan T. Comamala. Spain: Eds. CEAC.