Amherstia nobilis

Amherstia nobilis

Amherstia nobilis

This tropical tree is a critically endangered species of northeast India. It is the only member of the genus Amherstia and is widely cultivated as an ornamental in the humid tropics. It is native to Burma, hence the common name “The Pride of Burma”. The extravagant flowers are seen hanging from the long inflorescence, or flower stalk, which is a bright pink at the end. There are 5 petals, although 2 of these are minute and the rest are of unequal size.

We are fortunate to have this species in our garden collection for preservation.