Discover the stunning beauty and rich fragrance of the Paulownia Kawakamii, more commonly known as the Sapphire Dragon Tree. This majestic ornamental tree is an important piece of global biodiversity, belonging to a species on the IUCN Red List of critically endangered plants. This makes its cultivation even more significant. Native to eastern China, Japan, and Taiwan, the tree is faced with the threat of extinction in its native range due to habitat destruction. In contrast to its vulnerable state in the wild, the Sapphire Dragon Tree thrives in cultivation and can rapidly reach heights of 25-30 feet within 3-4 years, boasting a broad canopy of 15-20 feet wide. The most unique feature is the large, vivid violet flowers that appear in early spring before the leaves unfurl. As the tree matures, the leaves, which initially start as huge 2-foot-wide structures, gradually reduce in size to about 8” long and 4” wide. Beyond beautifying landscapes, these trees are deep-rooted and do not interfere with surrounding pavement—perfect for urban gardens. The soft vanilla-almond scent of their bell-shaped flowers with yellow throats and black speckles wafting through the air creates a delightful sensory experience. Help preserve this beautiful tree species; the Sapphire Dragon Tree is truly a testament to nature's grandeur.
