Empress Tree
Paulownia tomentosa
A fast-growing deciduous tree featuring large, heart-shaped leaves and upright stems when young, known for exceptionally rapid growth rates.
- Light
- Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily
- Water
- Moderate watering needs. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil become dry, reducing frequency during the dormant winter months.
- Growth
- Deciduous tree with an upright, spreading canopy. Can reach mature heights of 30 to 50 feet or more with an equal spread, displaying an extremely rapid growth rate.
Care instructions
Provide full sun exposure and well-draining soil. Water regularly while establishing to encourage deep root growth, and apply a balanced fertilizer during the active growing season.
Growing details
Sunlight
Full sun, requiring at least 6 to 8 hours of direct sunlight daily
Watering
Moderate watering needs. Water deeply when the top few inches of soil become dry, reducing frequency during the dormant winter months.
Soil
Adaptable to a wide range of soil types provided they are well-draining, preferring a neutral to slightly acidic pH range between 6.0 and 7.0.
Hardiness zone
USDA hardiness zones 5 through 9
Growth habit
Deciduous tree with an upright, spreading canopy. Can reach mature heights of 30 to 50 feet or more with an equal spread, displaying an extremely rapid growth rate.
Bloom season
Spring. Produces large, upright panicles of pale violet to blue, foxglove-like flowers with a pleasant fragrance before the leaves fully emerge.
Propagation
Propagated easily through root cuttings, stem cuttings, or seeds sown in warm, moist, well-draining medium.
Common pests & issues
Generally resilient, but can occasionally be affected by leaf spot, powdery mildew, or wood-boring insects. Ensure proper drainage to prevent root rot.
Similar species
Catalpa trees (Catalpa bignonioides), which share similarly large heart-shaped leaves but can be distinguished by their long bean-like seed pods and white flowers.