help identify unusual tropical tree?

Hi,

I just saw this remarkable tree in the blue mountains of Jamaica. It doesn't look like it has any leaves, and the flowers resemble hot-pink natural koosh balls. Quite amazing. I asked about it and tried to look it up, but haven't had any luck identifying it. Anyone have any idea what it is?

Thanks so much.

 

perhaps Callistemon? bottle brush?

 

Hello Lavagirl

try bombax elliptica

http://www.islandjamaica.com/strawberryolddriveway.htm

 

Agreed pierrot.
Callistemon are bottle brush in shape. Also commonly called "Bottle Brush".
http://farrer.riv.csu.edu.au/ASGAP/callis4.html

Cheers, LPN.

 

More photos of Pseudobombax ellipticum

 

The common name for this tree is the powder puff tree.