Princess Tree
Paulownia tomentosa · Deciduous broadleaf hardwood; known for its invasive nature in North America.
Plant Family
Paulowniaceae
Tree Category
Ornamental / Invasive Specialty Tree
Variety / Cultivar
None specified; wild-type common variety.
Hardiness Zones
USDA Zones 5-9; can survive temperatures down to -10°F, though flower buds may freeze in Zone 5.
About This Tree
An extremely fast-growing tree with a rounded or spreading crown. Notable for its large, velvety leaves and fragrant lavender flowers. Though ornamental, it is often considered a weed tree due to its aggressive spread via wind-borne seeds.
Leaf Characteristics
Simple, heart-shaped (cordate) leaves, opposite arrangement. They are very large (typically 6-12 inches long), fuzzy/tomentose appearance on both sides, with smooth or slightly lobed margins and green color.
Bark Characteristics
Gray-brown bark that is relatively smooth when young, becoming slightly furrowed or plated with age. It often displays pale vertical streaks.
Growing Information
Origin Region
Native to Central and Western China; widely naturalized in the Eastern United States and Europe.
Growing Season
Leafs out in late spring; produces pale violet flowers in April-May before leaves appear; fruits (capsules) ripen in autumn; enters dormancy in late fall.
Sunlight & Water Needs
Full sun is required for optimal growth. It is highly drought-tolerant once established and can thrive in poor, rocky, or disturbed soils.
Mature Size
Mature height of 30-60 feet with a similar spread. Growth rate is exceptionally fast, sometimes exceeding 10 feet in a single season when young.
Special Characteristics
Known for high biomass production and extremely lightweight, strong timber. It has high tolerance for air pollution and can sprout vigorously from the stump if cut down.
Wildlife & Ecology
The flowers provide nectar for bees and other pollinators. However, it is ecologically problematic as it outcompetes native species and disrupts natural ecosystems in riparian and disturbed areas.