How to identify Dragon tree (Paulownia fortunei)

How to identify Dragon tree (Paulownia fortunei)

Dragon tree stands out with its vigorous growth, potentially soaring up to 20 feet (6 meters) annually in its juvenile phase and eventually reaching heights of 50-75 feet (15-23 meters). This tree is noteworthy for its bloom of large, tubular flowers grouped in clusters, which herald the arrival of spring before the foliage unfolds. Its foliage is characterized by substantial, heart-shaped leaves, each impressive in size, spanning up to 9 inches (23 cm) long, contributing to its distinctive silhouette.

Lifespan: Perennial

Plant Type: Tree

Leaf Type: Deciduous

Quickly Identify Dragon tree

Stout stem measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in diameter with light lenticels.

Heart-shaped leaves up to 9 inches (23 cm) long, velvety texture, pale undersides.

Large, tubular flowers in creamy white to pale lavender hue, with striking purple throat.

Oval fruit capsule, sticky green when young, turning brown and dry upon maturity.

Thin, grayish brown bark with shallow fissures, almost suede-like texture.

Detailed Traits of Dragon tree

Leaf Features

The leaves of dragon tree are heart-shaped and measure between 5-9 inches (13-23 cm) in length. They exhibit a velvety green texture on their upper surface, with paler undersides. These leaves are known for their soft and smooth feel, contributing to the plant's distinctive appearance. In tropical climates, they remain evergreen, providing lush, year-round foliage. The vein pattern is prominently visible, adding to the leaf's textured look.

Learn About the Leaf Glossary

Flower Features

Dragon tree produces upright clusters of fragrant, tubular flowers measuring 1-3 inches (2.5-7.6 cm) in length. These flowers exhibit a creamy white to pale lavender hue, accentuated by a striking purple throat. Blooming in mid-spring, their enchanting scent and delicate coloration make them a distinctive feature of the plant. The tubular shape and clustered arrangement contribute to their unique and identifiable appearance.

Learn About the Flower Glossary

Stem Features

The stem of dragon tree is stout and light brown, adorned with numerous light lenticels. It exhibits a relatively thick, robust form, typically around 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in diameter. The texture is somewhat smooth but interspersed with the lenticels, which appear as small, slightly raised spots. The branching pattern is generally opposite, providing a symmetrical structure. These stems are pivotal in identifying dragon tree, offering a distinctive combination of color, texture, and branching that separates it from other species.

Learn About the Stem Glossary

Fruit Features

The fruit of dragon tree is an oval-shaped capsule, measuring 1 to 1 1/2 inches (2.5 to 3.8 cm) in length. Initially, the surface of the capsule is sticky and possesses a green hue when young, evolving to a brown, dry texture as it matures. Upon reaching maturity, the capsule reveals its copious contents, harboring thousands of diminutive seeds. These fruits are known for their persistence, often remaining attached to the plant for extended periods.

Learn About the Fruit Glossary

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