Royal Paulownia - 100 Most Common North American Trees

Royal Paulownia is an introduced ornamental that has become well established in North America. It is also known as princess-tree, empress-tree, or paulownia. It has a tropical look with very large catalpa-like leaves. The two species are not related.
The tree is a prodigious seeder and grows extremely fast. Unfortunately, because of this ability to grow nearly anywhere and at a rapid rate, it is now considered an invasive exotic tree species. You are encouraged to plant the tree with caution. Read more on Invasive Exotic Trees.
This native of China gives a most dramatic, coarse-textured appearance, with its huge heart-shaped leaves and large clusters of lavender flowers in the spring. Flowers are borne before leaf emergence so they stand out nicely, especially against an evergreen background. With a rapid growth rate, Princess-Tree can reach 50 feet in height with an equal spread in an open landscape. Most trees are seen 30 to 40 feet tall and wide. It thrives best in deep, moist but well-drained soil, sheltered from the wind, and has become naturalized in many parts of the South.

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The Silviculture of Paulownia
Paulownia in New York City