Known as the royal flower associated with the Nguyen dynasty in Hue, Ngo dong blossoms in late March and early April.

In the past, the trees were planted only in the Royal Citadel and the tombs of the Nguyen Kings. It was carved on a giant urn in Hue Citadel.

Pastel pink is its signature color.

When it blooms, all its leaves fall, replaced by light purple, large inflorescences.

From above, beautiful flowers bloom on the roof of palaces.

Its straight, tall trunk draws the attention of locals and visitors.

Hue Citadel is one of very few places in Vietnam with such rare flowers in stunning colors.

According to the book Dai Nam Thong Chi, King Minh Mang planted two Ngo dong trees brought from Guangdong (China) on both corners of Can Chanh palace.

As the king adored their flowers, he assigned a plant expert to find Vietnam’s indigenous Ngo dong trees. Back then, in Vietnam’s mountainous areas, there were many species of plants that look like Ngo dong trees, so only experts could tell the difference.

During this time of the year, visitors to Hue Citadel will have the opportunity to admire the beauty of Ngo dong flowers blossoming.