Satinleaf Tree

The Satinleaf Tree (Chrysolphyllum oliviforme) has to be one of my favorite trees in Florida. I love the glossy, bright green leaves with their copper satin contrast underneath. We're lucky to have a few Satinleaf Trees at Green Cay to admire. Often I see warblers during migration using them only feet away from the boardwalk to search for insects. Next time you see one you must turn the leaf over and check out that color, simply amazing.

You would think a beautiful tree like this would stand out but chances are that you've walked right by it before. Look below for an example of how it can blend right in with the surroundings. This tree is on the Tropical Hardwood Hammock at Green Cay and it definitely doesn't sound off any alarms, that is until you check out the flip side of the leaf.

Native to South Florida and most of the Carribean this tree is used heavily as an ornamental due to the copper leaf undersides. The fruit is sweet and edible. There has been some records that people use it to make jelly but I haven't seen it sold here...maybe I'm not looking in the right places. In the state of Florida it is listed as a Threatened species. When it's hot and balmy and the wildlife is hanging low check out the trees around you; you never know what you may find.