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Empress Tree
Paulownia tomentosa
Blooming Paulownia
Photo: James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org
Life Cycle: deciduous tree
Growth habit: small to medium tree that reaches a height of 30-60 ft. Produces clusters of light purple, fragrant flowers in the spring. Paulownia is a highly competitive, invasive* ornamental tree that grows rapidly
Paulownia seedling
Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org
Flowers in spring
Photo: Leslie J. Mehrhoff, University of Connecticut, Bugwood.org
Reproduction: produces numerous winged seeds, dried capsules (houses the seeds) mature in the fall and remain attached to the tree through winter. Suckers from root or stump
Fruit cluster in June
Photo: James H. Miller, USDA Forest Service, Bugwood.org
Conditions that favor growth: disturbed natural areas, including forests, streambanks, and steep rocky slopes. Prefers sun
Cultural control: hand pull young seedlings, including the root system when the soil is moist. Cut young trees at the base if flowering to prevent seed formation