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Image of outstanding blossoms of Paulownia tomentosa |
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Paulownia tomentosa
(Chinese Empress Tree,
Empress Tree,
Foxglove Tree, Karri Tree, Princess Tree, Royal Paulownia)
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Family: Paulowniaceae
Origin: Central and western China, Japan
Light: Full sun
Height: Up to 60'
Spread: 30'
Blooms: Terminal sprays of 2 long pinkish-lilac, tubular flowers
on foot long panicles, in late winter;
flowers followed by large poisonous fruits
Foliage: Deciduous, green, large, 5-15" across, felted, heart-shape to
five-lobed, opposite
Seeds: Clusters, 1-1.5" egg-shaped capsule, dry, winged, in the
Fall
Soil: Fertile, well-drained, keep moist
Water: Regular
Fertilizer: Well-balanced, 8-8-8 in Spring / Fall
Insects / Disease: Watch for aphids
Propagation: Seeds
Uses: Specimen, landscaping
Caution: Plant can be invasive
Comments: Paulownia tomentosa or Chinese
Empress Tree, or
Empress Tree or Foxglove Tree or
or Karri Tree or Princess Tree or Royal Paulownia is named after the
daughter of Paul I, the czar of Russia, Anna Pavlovna. In Chinese,
this tree is known as Mao Pao Tong and Kiri in Japanese.
In late winter or early Spring, the fragrant flowers appear before the leaves and
the whole tree is filled with gorgeous blossoms that resemble a foxglove. Empress Tree
grows up to 10 feet tall per year, has gray bark and a coarse branching
system. It is tolerant of pollution and can tolerate
temperatures down to as low as -10 degrees F. Protect tree from strong wind as the young hollow stems tend to break
easily. Wood from the Foxglove Tree is among the most valued
American hardwoods and some Asian string instruments have been made form
it. This tree has also been used for the prevention of soil erosion.
In summer, the
dense, handsome nitrogen-rich leaves of the Princess Tree provide great
shade. Karri
Tree is easily propagated from
seeds and it thrives easily in any type of soil. It can be kept
smaller by cutting back. The new growth from the base will produce
larger leaves measuring 2-3' across. By pruning to ground
level every year will produce a stronger erect growth.
Paulownia tomentosa is an impressive specimen tree for the landscaping garden as
it adds beauty and perfumes the air. This carefree tree is an attention
getter.
USDA Hardiness Zones : 5-9 |
