This attractive small tree has a short trunk with spreading branches that form a dense rounded crown. It has glossy dark green oblong leaves and the large yellow-centred white, fried egg-like flowers appear singularly during autumn. 

Hardiness zones 9 to 10

Gordonia axillaris is naturally found from southern China to Hong Kong growing in well drained fertile organic rich moist sandy soil in a wind protected full sun position and is frost and drought tender.

The Fried Egg Plant is grown for its of flowers and rounded habit.  It is planted along borders for screening or as a specimen in street plantings. It is suitable for coastal and inland regions establishing in 4-6 years and is moderately long lived. When young it may be grown as a container plant or can be used as a courtyard specimen with an excellent flower display during early winter. ID 261

Gordonia (gor-DON-ee-a) axillaris (aks-il-LAH-ris)

'Gordonia': after 18th century London nurseryman, James Gordon; 'axillaris': borne in the leaf axils.

Theaceae (tee-AY-see-ee)
Tea Family