Magnolia denudata, known as the lilytree or Yulan magnolia (simplified Chinese:玉兰花; traditional Chinese:玉兰花; pinyin:yùlánhuā; literally: "jade orchid/lily"), is native to central and eastern China. It has been cultivated in Chinese Buddhist temple gardens since 600 AD. Its flowers were regarded as a symbol of purity in the Tang Dynasty and it was planted in the grounds of the Emperor's palace. It is the official city flower of Shanghai.