Interesting theory on the pollination, I hadn't thought about that. I'll look further into it and see if I can find some answers. Ylang Ylang or Cananga odorata actually has a yellow flower at its peak. They start off green and turn an almost golden yellow. The color reminds me of a very ripe banana. There are a handful of some yellow blooming shrubs and trees that are at the top of my list. Aglaia odorata, Cananga odorata, Michelia figo (creamy pale yellow) and Brunfelsia nitida (start yellow and fade to white, nocturnal scent only) to name a few. Unfortunately, Aglaia odorata has to be one of the most underused shrubs in the landscape. It might be due to lack of availability until recent years.
Prior to my posting new threads on some of my favorite fragrant shrubs, I had noticed a definite trend in most of them. White flowers. From the Tabernaemontana species, to Gardenia (even G.tubifera var. Kula has blooms that start golden orange and fade to white), Michelia alba, Murrya paniculata, all of the Jasmines (shrubs & vines), and Magnolia grandiflora. Not sure why that is, but it is. Posoqueria latifolia is no exception. I've heard it referred to as Brazilian Needle Flower, which I think is unfair, because the name needle flower may dissuade some from even looking into it. A very attractive shrub with dark green, glossy 3" to 4" leaves. The clusters of white flowers are deliciously scented with a unique floral tone, and if happy, will bloom throughout most of the year. The large fruits when yellow in color and ripe are not only a source of viable seed, but they are edible and tasty. I have a very happy specimen planted in the ground, and another in a rather large container. Both are doing very well. They seem to really like good amounts of sun, water, and fertilizer, and will generously respond to care, attention, and admiration. These have proven to be a bit tricky to find, but are most certainly worth the search if it will grow in your zone. Anyone else have any experience with the wonderful shrubs?
