If you’re looking for something a little different to add to the garden, why not take a look at the fried egg tree (Gordonia axillaris)? Yes, it has a peculiar name, but its interesting characteristics and ease of care makes this a unique addition to the landscape.
I. Appearance and Characteristics
Polyspora axillaris is a species of evergreen tree or shrub that can grow up to 9 m tall. It has been given the name fried egg plant for its white and yellow flower. P. axillaris is found in southern China, including Hong Kong and Hainan. It also grows in the wild in Taiwan and Vietnam, and is a garden tree all over the world.
While earlier grouped under Gordonia, the genus Polyspora has been found to be not closely related to the North American species, thus transferring the species to its own genus.
Gordonia is a small evergreen tree that can grow up to 16 feet (4.9 m.) and gets its name because its big white flowers bear a resemblance to a fried egg. The unusual, aromatic ‘fried egg flower,’ which is about 4 inches (10 cm.) in diameter, is white with five petals and a cluster of yellow stamens in the middle. Fried egg plants bloom from autumn to spring and the flowers resemble those of the closely related camellia, although they do not brown on the plant. When they fall to the ground, they look like fried eggs. The leaves are glossy and dark green with a leathery texture. In the winter, the tips of the leaves become red, giving this plant special off-season appeal. The bark is shiny and orange and brown in color. The plant is slow to get going, but the growth rate increases once it is established.
II. How to Grow and Care
Fried egg plant is a low-maintenance plant, suitable for gardeners seeking ornamental beauty without a high degree of complexity. Key care points include ensuring the fried egg plant receives full to partial sunlight and maintaining soil that is well-draining yet retains some moisture. Special care should be given to protect the fried egg plant from frost, as it is sensitive to cold temperatures. Overall, it’s an easy plant to care for, demanding minimal intervention beyond basic watering and seasonal pruning.
Sunlight and Soil
The fried egg flower likes full sun to part shade. They need good drainage; therefore, planting on a slope near a wet area is often the best bet. The fried egg plant needs slightly acidic soil and does not grow well in calcium rich soil.
Watering
Adapted to less frequent rainfall, fried egg plant thrives with a watering schedule that mimics its resilience to dryer conditions; it’s suited for once every 2-3 weeks. Originating from regions where water is not always plentiful, fried egg plant has developed a tolerance for drier spells between waterings. As an outdoor plant often subject to the whims of natural precipitation, fried egg plant exhibits robust growth when the soil’s moisture levels are carefully managed to prevent overwatering, especially during its active growing season.
Fertilizing
To maintain the fried egg plant’s health, prioritize balanced nutrition fertilizers, rich in N-P-K. Apply monthly in the growing season for robust growth and blossoming. Use sparingly – over-fertilization risks root burn. In the dormant winter phase, reduce to quarterly. Dilute according to label instructions to bolster root development, plant vigor, and flower production. Novice or expert, wear gloves and avoid overfeeding. Adhering to a precise, seasonally-adjusted fertilization schedule ensures fried egg plant’s vitality.
Pruning
Pruning helps to achieve bushy growth but is not necessary. The plant will take on a natural dome shape when left alone. You can also trim the plant like a hedge when it is young.
Mulching
Mulch helps keep competition from weeds or surrounding grass to a minimal.
Propagation
For successful propagation of fried egg plant, use healthy semi-hardwood cuttings from a mature plant. Prepare cuttings with several leaf nodes, dip the cut end in rooting hormone to enhance root development, and then plant them in a well-draining soil mix. Maintain consistent moisture without over watering and provide indirect light to encourage rooting. Covering with a plastic bag can offer a favorable mini greenhouse effect, but ensure it does not touch the leaves to prevent rot.
Transplanting
The prime window for moving fried egg plant is during the rejuvenating embrace of early to mid-spring, when mild temperatures encourage strong root establishment. Choose a sunny location with good drainage to ensure the fried egg plant’s flourishing post-transplant. A gentle touch and minimal root disturbance works wonders.
III. Uses and Benefits
Fried egg plant is cultivated around the world as an ornamental garden plant. Fried egg plant produces flowers that resemble a sunny-side-up egg with its white petals and yellow center.
