Empress tree (Paulownia tomentosa) pawl-OH-nee-ah toe-men-TOE-sah Genus:  Paulownia This deciduous tree has thick shoots and large, lobed, bright green leaves. Fragrant pinkish lilac flowers appear in late spring with the foliage. When grown as a perennial, its robust shoots become sturdy stems 2 inches in diameter, with mammoth leaves as much as 2 feet across. Paulownia tomentosa can grow to 12 feet tall in a single season. Noteworthy Characteristics:  This native of China is naturalized in the eastern U.S. Grown as a large shade tree in milder parts of the country, it can be grown as a perennial, cutting it to the ground each spring. It tolerates polluted and poor soils. Care:  Grow in fertile, well-drained soil and full sun. Flowers best in climates with long, hot summers. Propagation:  From root cuttings in winter. Problems:  Canker, dieback, powdery mildew, wood rot, and mushroom rot.

Overview

Height 10 ft. to 15 ft. Spread 3 ft. to 6 ft. Growth Pace Fast Grower, Invasive/Aggressive Grower Light Full Sun Only Moisture Dry to Medium Characteristics Showy Flowers, Showy Foliage Bloom Time Spring Flower Color Pink Uses Beds and Borders, Flowering Tree, Specimen Plant/Focal Point Seasonal Interest Spring Interest Tolerance Drought Tolerant Type Trees