Sapphire dragon tree

Paulownia kawakamii T.Itô

Paulownia kawakamii, known as the sapphire dragon tree, is a deciduous tree species in the Paulowniaceae family. It is native to Taiwan and southern China and is distinguished by its large violet flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves emerge.

Description

Paulownia kawakamii, described by T. Itô in 1912, is a member of the Paulowniaceae family and is commonly called the sapphire dragon tree. This species is native to Taiwan and southern China. It is a deciduous tree that produces numerous large violet flowers in early spring, preceding the development of its leaves. The tree has a global distribution and is recognized for its ornamental value due to its striking floral display.