This large tropical tree is the Wild Almond, Sterculia foetida.

Despite its common name, it is not related to the true almond. It is recognized by its broad crown, smooth gray bark, and large leaves divided into several narrow leaflets that spread outward like the fingers of a hand.

The flowers are small, reddish to purplish, and produced in branching clusters. They have a strong, unpleasant odor, which explains the species name foetida, meaning “foul-smelling.” That scent attracts flies and other insects that help pollinate the flowers.

After flowering, the tree produces striking clusters of thick, woody pods. These begin green and ripen to bright red or orange. When they split open, they reveal several glossy black seeds attached along the inside.

The seeds may look attractive, but they should not be eaten casually. In some places they are used only after careful roasting or other preparation.

Wild Almond is native to tropical Asia and parts of Africa but is now widely planted in warm regions as a shade and ornamental tree.

Its unusual flowers and vivid red seedpods make it especially memorable. Even when the flowers themselves are difficult to see, their odor often announces that the tree is in bloom.