This lovely small tree, native to India & China, bears abundant large (2-3”) lavender to purple fragrant orchid flowers in January to April & intermittently in Summer. Growing 15-20’ here in the States, it’s marginally frost hardy, growing best in Sunset zones 13 & 18-24 & hardy down to 22 degrees F. Semi-evergreen to deciduous in cooler climates, the wonderful flower show occurs before the foliage leafs out. A spectacular steet tree where Spring is reliably & steadily warm. Prune & stake for best form. After bloom it produces a large crop of bean pods you can trim off for neater appearance.

Annie

photo:(left) Jim Harding