Paulownia

These deciduous trees are natives of China. They are valued for their handsome foliage and beautiful blossoms. P. tomentosa, commonly known as Empress Tree and Royal Paulownia, is a very quick-growing tree when young, sometimes growing 8 feet in its first year of growth. The Empress Tree will ultimately reach a height of 35 to 40 feet. The huge leaves of this tree range from 5 to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide, but on rapidly-growing stems or young trees, they can reach a length of 2 or 3 feet and almost as wide. They have lobed edges and a velvety soft feel. In the spring just before the leaves unfurl, 8- to 15-inch clusters of fragrant, lilac or violet flowers are produced. These are followed by seedpods that hang on the branches for a least a year. Empress Trees are excellent shade trees, virtually pest-free, can be grown near the sea and will withstand the impure air of cities. However, because of its enormous leaves, it produces heavy shade that will not allow grass or other plants to grow beneath it. Another drawback is that when grown in cooler regions, its flower buds, which are unfortunately produced at the end of the growing season, may be killed by the cold even though the tree survives. Despite this, the Empress Tree is still a magnificent plant to cultivate.

Pot Cultivation

Grow Empress Trees in moist, but well-drained, deep, loamy soil in full sun. Large trees are hard to establish when planted; so, young trees, no higher than 5 to 6 feet, should be purchased balled and burlapped and planted in early spring. Pruning, which should be done in the winter, consists of maintaining a clear trunk, especially on young trees.

Propagation

Seeds may be sown as soon as they are ripe, in sandy soil in a shady cold frame or greenhouse. They should sprout in a few weeks. When they are large enough to handle, pot them individually or insert them in a bed of light soil in a cold frame. Keep them in a cold frame for the first winter and plant in a nursery the following spring.