This flowering tree is Senna, Senna papillosa.

It belongs to the pea family and can be recognized by its compound leaves, each made up of several pairs of smooth green leaflets.

The flowers are bright yellow and have the slightly irregular shape typical of many Senna species. They are visited by bees, which collect pollen by vibrating the flower’s anthers—a behavior known as buzz pollination.

After flowering, the tree produces elongated seedpods. These begin green and gradually turn brown as the seeds mature inside.

Senna papillosa is native from Mexico through Central America into northern South America, where it grows as a shrub or small tree in tropical habitats.

Although its individual flowers may appear simple, a tree carrying many yellow blossoms can make a very bright display. Its flowers also provide an excellent opportunity to watch bees at work.