Gordonia axillaris, commonly known as Fried Egg Plant, is an evergreen tree or shrub native to forest margins, open woodlands, and hillsides in Southeast Asia. It typically grows up to 9 meters tall and is characterized by its distinctive flowers and peeling bark. The flowers, which bloom from late fall to early spring, are large, showy, and resemble a fried egg due to their white petals and central cluster of bright yellow anthers. They emit a pleasant fragrance, attracting pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The brown bark of Gordonia axillaris peels off in large, smooth pieces, revealing a lighter underbark, and the fruit resembles a green acorn.

The Fried Egg Plant is valued for its ornamental flowers, which drop from the tree intact before wilting, creating a unique ground display. It is used in gardens and landscapes for erosion control due to its ability to stabilize slopes, and it is also planted as a specimen tree or in mixed borders for its aesthetic appeal. Gordonia axillaris requires full sun to part shade, consistent medium moisture, and well-drained soils to thrive. While it is not commonly afflicted by serious pests or diseases, it may suffer from root rot in poorly drained soils. This species is not typically invasive but should be monitored when planted outside its native range to ensure it does not become problematic.CC BY-SA 4.0