Erblichia odorata
 
Common Names: Butterfly Tree, Flor de Mayo, Jarro de Oro, Candelaria de Montaña
 
Zones: 10B–11
 
A rare and fragrant tropical tree native to Mexico and Central America, Erblichia odorata is the sole species in its genus and a relative of passionflowers. Revered for its large, golden-orange blooms and glossy foliage, it grows in humid forests from sea level to 2000 m elevation. Though virtually unknown in cultivation until the late 20th century, it is now prized in tropical gardens for its ornamental and ecological value.
 
Key Features
Growth Habit: Upright; evergreen; slow to moderate growth
Height: Typically 20–40 ft (6–12 m); trunk diameter up to 24 in. (60 cm) in mature specimens
Trunk: Wrinkled brown-gray bark; young branches yellow-brown; often straight and columnar
Leaves: Alternate; oblong-lanceolate; 5–16 cm long; glossy green above, pale and pubescent below
Inflorescence: Solitary axillary flowers; 7–8 cm long, up to 18 cm wide; golden yellow to reddish-orange; intensely fragrant
Fruit: Ellipsoidal capsule; 3–5 cm long; contains oblong seeds with orange arils
Ecology: Native to humid tropical forests; pollinated by insects; no known threats1
 
Growing Conditions
Light: Full sun to part shade
Watering: Moderate to high; prefers consistent moisture
Soil: Rich, loamy; well-drained; tolerates acidic to neutral pH
Temperature: Tolerates 35–100°F (2–38°C); thrives in 70–90°F (21–32°C)
Humidity: High; adapted to tropical and cloud forest zones
Propagation: By seed; slow to establish; limited availability
Tolerance: Sensitive to frost; best suited to protected tropical gardens
 
Landscape Use
Best suited for tropical botanical gardens, rare plant collections, and shaded pollinator habitats. Its large, fragrant flowers and elegant form make it a showpiece in warm, humid climates. Pairs well with Brownea grandiceps, Warszewiczia coccinea, and Tabebuia rosea in high-canopy, ornamental designs.