PLEASE NOTE: WE CANNOT SEND THIS TO QUEENSLAND OR NEW SOUTH WALES.

Paulownia tomentosa, commonly known as the empress tree or princess tree, is a fast-growing deciduous tree valued for its large, heart-shaped leaves and striking, trumpet-shaped purple flowers. This species is native to central and western China, where it has been cultivated for centuries both for ornamental purposes and for its lightweight, durable timber. It has since been introduced to many other parts of the world, including Australia, due to its rapid growth and adaptability.

In ideal conditions, Paulownia tomentosa can reach heights of 10 to 15 metres, and in some cases even taller. One of its most notable characteristics is its growth rate. Under the right circumstances, it can grow up to 3 to 5 metres in a single year, particularly when young and given adequate water, warmth and nutrients. This makes it a popular choice for erosion control, timber plantations and ornamental plantings.

However, this tree is not without its challenges. Due to its vigorous growth and ability to regenerate from roots and stumps, Paulownia tomentosa has shown invasive tendencies in some parts of the world. In Australia, it is considered an environmental weed in certain regions. For example, it is a declared weed in parts of Queensland, particularly in the south-east, where it can out compete native vegetation and disrupt local ecosystems and is a plant of interest with weed potential in NSW. Places with normally hot weather and low rainfall will naturally control this tree and growing in them is usually ok, but places with high rainfall can make this a plant of concern. Before planting, it is essential to check with your local council or state environment department to determine whether it is allowed in your area. We will not send these seeds to NSW or QLD. We do not send seeds tof any kind o Tasmania at this time.

In terms of health benefits some traditional uses exist in Chinese herbal medicine. Extracts from the leaves, flowers and bark have been studied for their anti-inflammatory, antioxidant and antimicrobial properties. However, these applications are not widely adopted or regulated in Australian herbal practice, and more research is needed before any health benefits can be recommended for practical use.

Growing Paulownia tomentosa from seed requires some patience and care. Seeds are small and usually require stratification to germinate successfully. Stratification is a method used to simulate the natural conditions seeds would experience in the wild in order to break dormancy and encourage germination. Stratification for these seeds involves mixing seeds with a small amount of moist (not wet) sand, vermiculite, or peat, placing them in a sealed plastic bag or container, and storing them in the refrigerator (normal shelf) at a temperature of around 1 to 5 degrees Celsius. Seeds of Paulownia tomentosa require around two to four weeks of cold, moist stratification before they are ready to germinate. After stratification, the seeds are removed from the cold, sown on the surface of a suitable seed-raising mix, and kept in a warm, bright area to encourage sprouting. The purpose of this treatment is to soften the seed coat and activate internal enzymes that allow the seed to begin growing once it senses the environmental conditions are favourable for survival.

How to grow:

Begin by mixing the seeds with moist sand and placing them in a sealed container in the refrigerator for around two to four weeks. After this cold treatment, sow the seeds on the surface of a well-draining seed-raising mix, pressing them in lightly but not covering them, as they need light to germinate. Keep the soil moist but not waterlogged, and place the tray in a warm, bright area out of direct sun. Germination can take two to four weeks, depending on temperature.

Once seedlings have emerged and are large enough to handle, they can be pricked out and potted into individual containers. These young trees should be hardened off gradually before planting in the ground. Choose a sunny position with deep, fertile soil and good drainage. Water regularly during the first growing season, and protect the young tree from frost, as it can be tender when small. After establishment, Paulownia tomentosa is drought-tolerant and relatively low-maintenance.

Because of its size and speed of growth, it is best planted away from buildings, pipes and driveways. It can become top-heavy and may drop branches in strong winds, so site selection is important for long-term success.