One of the hardiest of the big-leafs, this forms a large flat-topped shrub or small tree. The large obovate leaves have a winged and flattened petiole (stem) and a woolly grayish to brownish indumentum on the lower surface. The flowers (early to mid-spring) are quite variable, ranging from white to cream-yellow or rose, often with a purplish flush, blotch and/or spots. The true species is quite rare in gardens, most specimens that I have seen are hybrids. Like the other big-leafs, this species does best in light shade with plenty of irrigation during the growing season. Native to the border regions of W Yunnan and N Burma.
DGEY#405We have finally been able to re-collect this choice species. These are grown from our collection of seed at 10,800 ft. on the Yunnan/Burma border. Sorry, only a limited supply this year.(+5\R1\4)RSBG#383sd2001
