Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa)

Empress Tree

Paulownia tomentosa is a deciduous tree with thick shoots and large, lobed, bright green leaves. Fragrant pinkish‑lilac flowers appear in late spring with the foliage. When grown as a perennial (cut to ground each spring), robust shoots become sturdy stems 2 inches in diameter with mammoth leaves up to 2 feet across. Can grow 12 feet in a single season.

Key Features

• Rapid growth; huge leaves when coppiced.
• Fragrant lilac flowers in spring.
• Naturalized in eastern U.S.; tolerates polluted and poor soils.
• Invasive/aggressive in some areas.

Growing Conditions

Fertile, well‑drained soil in full sun. Flowers best in climates with long, hot summers.

Care & Propagation

Root cuttings in winter. Problems: canker, dieback, powdery mildew, wood rot, mushroom rot.

Landscape Uses

Shade tree, specimen, beds, borders; spring interest.

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