The Paulownia tree, also known as the Empress tree or Princess tree (Paulownia tomentosa), is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to China, but it has been introduced and cultivated in various parts of the world. It is known for its versatility and numerous beneficial qualities. Here are some of its uses and qualities:

1. Fast Growth: Paulownia is one of the fastest-growing trees in the world. It can grow several feet in a single year, making it an excellent choice for reforestation projects and establishing windbreaks or shelterbelts.
2. Timber Production: The wood of Paulownia trees is lightweight, yet remarkably strong and stable. It has a beautiful grain pattern and is highly valued for a variety of applications, including furniture, cabinetry, musical instruments, and veneers.
3. Sustainable Wood Source: Due to its rapid growth and ability to thrive on marginal lands, Paulownia offers an environmentally sustainable source of timber, reducing the pressure on native forests.
4. Bioenergy: The fast growth and high biomass productivity of Paulownia make it a promising candidate for bioenergy production. Its wood can be used as feedstock for biofuel or as a renewable energy source for heating and electricity generation.
5. Erosion Control: The dense root system of Paulownia helps stabilize soil and prevents erosion, making it useful for controlling soil degradation in areas prone to landslides or erosion.
6. Bee Forage: Paulownia trees produce large, showy, and fragrant flowers that are attractive to bees and other pollinators. It can be used to provide nectar and pollen sources for honeybees and support local pollinator populations.
7. Ornamental Value: The Paulownia tree's striking appearance, with its large heart-shaped leaves and beautiful lavender or purple flowers, makes it a popular ornamental tree in gardens and landscapes.
8. Medicinal Uses: Some traditional medicine practices use parts of the Paulownia tree for various therapeutic purposes, such as treating respiratory issues, reducing inflammation, and promoting wound healing.
9. Phytoremediation: Paulownia has been studied for its ability to absorb heavy metals and other pollutants from contaminated soils, making it a potential candidate for phytoremediation projects.
10. Carbon Sequestration: Like all trees, Paulownia contributes to carbon sequestration by absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere and storing it in its wood.

Empress tree

Common name   empress tree, princess tree, foxglove tree, or kiri

Botanical name   Paulownia tomentosa

Family   Scrophulariaceae

Details   This truly spectacular tree produces large, pale mauve "foxglove" flowers on naked branches in early spring, the large, dinner-plate-sized, soft furry leaves appearing later. If cut to the ground in spring, enormous leaves develop on the shoots sprouting from the soil.

Date   July 23, 2013

Diameter   1.00

Forest layer   canopy

Height (m)   3.0

Propagation method   Sow pot / tray

Perennial  

Details

Empress tree

Common name   empress tree, princess tree, foxglove tree, or kiri

Botanical name   Paulownia tomentosa

Family   Scrophulariaceae

Details   This truly spectacular tree produces large, pale mauve "foxglove" flowers on naked branches in early spring, the large, dinner-plate-sized, soft furry leaves appearing later. If cut to the ground in spring, enormous leaves develop on the shoots sprouting from the soil.

Date   July 23, 2013

Diameter   1.00

Forest layer   canopy

Height (m)   3.0

Propagation method   Sow pot / tray

Perennial  

Details