CEYLON IRONWOOD

(species Mesua ferrea), tropical tree, of the garcinia family (Clusiaceae), of the tea order (Theales), cultivated in tropical climates for its form, foliage, and fragrant flowers. The slow-growing Ceylon ironwood reaches about 18 m (60 feet) and has shining green, willowy foliage that is scarlet when young. The fragrant, yellow-centred, white flowers are 7 or 8 cm (3 inches) wide and have four petals.