Cynometra iripa (Wrinkle Pod Mangrove) (Fabaceae)

This is an unmistakable tree, particularly once the pods are seen. Having the look of wrinkled ears, they are not easily forgotten. The leaves are even pinnate and the leaflets are somewhat rhomboid and assymetrical. Other mangroves like Xylocarpus spp. have pinnate leaves as well but these species have much more regular and larger elliptic leaves. The flowers are small and white and are of the Caesalpinoid form (ie like those of the Tamarind).

The habitat context of the Wrinkle Pod mangrove is also unmistakable. This species is a small tree that grows in mangroves, usually under the shade of other mangrove trees and where there is freshwater input. These photos were taken at the Marrdja botanical walk at Cape Tribulation where I believe a freshwater creek feeds out into the mangrove area.