Persian Ironwood – Parrotia persica

Deciduous tree. Grows about 100 ft tall and 30-50 ft wide, with a trunk up to 60 inches in diameter. Bark: smooth, pinkish-brown, flaking/peeling to leave cinnamon, pink, green, and yellow patches. Leaves: alternate, ovoid, with wavy margins, glossy green, turning a rich purple to brilliant red in autumn. Flowers: similar to witch-hazel flowers but dark red. Bloom in late winter on bare stems; 4 rounded sepals with no petals. Stamens are conspicuous, form dense red cluster. Fruit: capsule.

Native to northern Iran. Cultivated as an ornamental tree for its stunning atumn color and the smooth, patterned bark.