Tree with large purple flowers?

Question

I am in S. Texas. This week some unknown tree has bloomed in town, and it has the most magnificent large purple blossoms I have ever seen. They are pretty rare here....I suspect it is because it is not a native species. The tree is large but doesn't (I don't think) grow as tall as an oak. The leaves are fairly wide and rounded in shape. I thought it might be a Magnolia Galaxy, but the blossoms don't look like magnolia at all. I can't find a good on-line pictorial reference to use for ID'ing unknown trees and plants.

Gello · Accepted Answer

Hello Jimbo,	It sounds like it may be a Paulowina tomentosa aka "empress tree". Gello

Jimbo · Answer

Don't think that is it, as the empress tree has heart-shaped leaves. Also ithas clusters of a dozen or more bell-shaped blossoms that are much likefoxglove. This tree I am seeing here has very large individual purpleflowers....they are not clustered at all, they are entirely separate. Theblossoms are as large as magnolia blossoms.  Am trying to find out what itis so I can order one.a.html

Elizabeth · Answer

Maybe a Bauhinia?

Jimbo · Answer

Bingo! That's it...thanks!

escape · Answer

I don't know if it's hardy in Dallas or not, but if you want to buy one, I would send you to Northaven Gardens in Dallas, or Rohde's in Garland.

Need a good, cheap, knowledge expanding present for yourself or a friend?

formatting link

Tree with large purple flowers?

Join the Discussion

Didn't find your answer?