Sapphire Dragon Tree (Paulownia kawakamii): A Rare Taiwanese Tree with Violet Flowers

Sapphire Dragon Tree, Paulownia kawakamii, is a rare, deciduous tree endemic to Taiwan. It is distinguished by its large, violet-blue flowers—a unique color in the genus.

Rare Blue Blooms

This tree grows 30–50 feet tall with large, heart-shaped leaves. In spring, before leaf-out, it produces upright panicles of tubular, violet-blue flowers with yellow throats. The seed capsules are woody, persisting. It is critically endangered in the wild due to habitat loss.

Conservation and Cultivation

Paulownia kawakamii prefers full sun, well-drained soil, and mild winters (zone 8). It is fast-growing. Conservation efforts include cultivation in botanical gardens. A tree of exceptional floral color and conservation significance.