Overview

Medium-sized deciduous tree. Native to Asia (Japan), growing at altitudes of sea level up to 1.800 m in mixed broadleaf forest. Large, leathery leaves (16-38(-50) cm long). Large cup-shaped, erect flowers (15-20 cm) with red stamens. Blooming in early summer (May, June), after the leaves expand. Strong fragrance. Similar to M. tripetala but earlier flowering and flowers don’t open as flat. Broadly conical canopy. In Japan the large leaves are used to wrap food and to grill dishes. Light, strong wood is easy to work with and therefor popular among craftsman. M. obovata was first described by Carl Peter Thunberg in 1794.

Technical Details

• Height: 1500-3000 cm