Empress Tree
Paulownia tomentosa
Type: Deciduous Tree
Exposure: Full Sun
Water: Regular

Happy Mother’s Day!

The popularity of this fast-growing Chinese native is thanks to its large dramatic leaves and tropical-looking, fragrant flower clusters. In spring, pyramidal clusters of purplish-blue, trumpet shaped flowers form on the bare branches, resembling foxgloves on steroids, with a scent reminiscent of vanilla. These clusters can reach a foot tall (30cm) reaching straight up from the branch tips. The flowers are followed closely by the arrival of the large, tropical-looking leaves that can reach as much 16in, or 40cm across.

I had done up this plant profile a few years ago around this time, and then ended up not using it because of all the negative press I found while researching it. Apparently,  its vigorous growth habit becomes an invasive growth habit in some parts of  Eastern North America. Some people even cut them to the ground every year or two (this is called coppicing), which results in a handsome display of foliage, but no flowers. But this is a plus to many people, because the seeds left behind when the flowers fade can produce a substantial amount of litter. Left to grow, this will become a shade tree that can eventually become 50 ft (about 15m) tall, and nearly as wide.

This is an attention-getting plant with, it would seem, a dark side. If you get one, know what you’re getting into.

Cheers,

John