Paulonia

Class

Dicotyledoneae

Division

Angiospermae

Family

Paulowniaceae

Order

Lamiales

Genus

Paulownia

Species

tomentosa

Description

Very ornamental tree of medium to large size with an open round crown tending to an irregular habit. It has a sparse branching habit and deep green leaves that turn orangey yellow in autumn. Flowering is excellent and characteristic, occurring in the May-June period when it forms erect lilac-blue panicle inflorescences.
Excellent adaptability to various types of soils and growing environments, including urban climates. Requires a sunny exposure. It develops a medium deep root in the soil, with widespread secondary roots. Grows well in all soil types, but prefers clay and sandy soils.
Tree of landscape and ornamental value, preferably isolated for park areas and gardens, also in groups for open areas and parks. Has excellent drought resistance and adaptability to coastal areas. Wind-resistant wood. Resistant to pathogens and does not require frequent pruning, which must be oriented towards maintaining the shape while respecting the architecture of the foliage.

curiosity and special features

The botanical genus, Paulownia, was dedicated in 1835 by the German botanist Philipp Franz von Siebold to the Grand Duchess Anna Paulowna Romanov, while the specific epithet refers to the pubescence or tomentosity that characterises the underside of the leaves.

Origin and Diffusion

Tree native to central and eastern China and South Korea, introduced to Europe and Japan in the mid-19th century. In colder regions it fears frost, mainly due to the formation period of the flower buds, which, differentiating in autumn, remain on the plant during the winter and may therefore be subject to damage in colder periods.

Leaf

Leafs, deciduous and tomentose, have a distinctive heart-shaped lamina that gives the plant additional ornamental value.

Leaf color

The leaves are of a uniform shade, deep green turning to orangey yellow in autumn.

Plant height

The height of the plant varies from 5 to 20 m, representing a second-sized tree.

Lifespan

Polyennial deciduous Species.

Suggested planting locations

The developed vegetative habitus as well as the size attained make Paulonia suitable for gardens and parks, large flower beds and roadside roundabouts, and open fields.

Considering its high landscape and ornamental value, it is often used as an isolated specimen for park and garden areas but is also suitable in groups for open areas and parks.

Stem/stem

The stem is woody with grey-brown bark that tends to crack slightly longitudinally with time; the variety has no thorns.

Flower

The flower has a simple, medium-sized form with a tubular corolla and single-coloured petals. It is arranged in large panicle-like inflorescences. It flowers from mid-spring to early summer. It has hints of honey and is very fragrant, with a fruity aroma. It is attractive to bees and bumblebees.

Growth

A very vigorous and fast-growing plant.

Plant habit

It develops an erect habit with an open round crown tending to an irregular carriage.

branching

The branching is medium and thinned.