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Ceylon Ironwood Flower Wikimedia Commons
Calophyllaceae

Ceylon Ironwood Flower

Mesua ferrea

Sacred beauty and strength.

Family
Calophyllaceae
Genus
Mesua
Native to
Sri Lanka, India, Southeast Asia
Bloom season
Spring, Summer
Type
evergreen tree
Height
50-65 ft
Sunlight
full sun to part shade
Soil
Well-drained, fertile, acidic
Water
moderate
Hardiness
10-12
Lifespan
perennial

Did you know

  • Ceylon ironwood is the national tree of Sri Lanka, where it is called 'Na' and has deep cultural significance.
  • The large white flowers with golden stamens are intensely fragrant, especially at night.
  • The wood is so dense and hard that it sinks in water—one of the few timbers in the world with this property.
  • In Hindu tradition, the tree is sacred to Lord Buddha and is often planted near Buddhist temples.
  • Young leaves emerge in a striking bright red or pink color before maturing to dark green, adding year-round ornamental value.

Color meanings

0

beauty

1

courage

2

sacredness

Uses

  • sacred tree plantings
  • timber
  • traditional medicine