Paulownia tomentosa PRINCESS TREE (50 seeds)

Empress Tree, Foxglove tree also known as Princess Tree or Paulownia tomentosa in Latin, is a fascinating and very hardy tree belonging to the Scrophulariaceae family. It is native to northern China, Japan, and Korea. This majestic tree grows extremely fast and can reach a maximum height of 20 meters. It is often described as a "super tree" due to its exceptional growth rate and multiple uses. It is distinguished by its large, lush, and fragrant foliage.

The heart-shaped leaves can reach up to 40 cm in length and 30 cm in width. They are a brilliant green and have a soft texture, sometimes slightly pubescent (fuzzy) on the underside. This abundance of leaves allows the Paulownia to provide pleasant shade, making it a popular tree for public spaces and gardens. Its flowering is spectacular and eye-catching.

Large bell-shaped flowers, ranging from pale violet to blue, appear in spring before the leaves emerge. They are grouped in cluster-like inflorescences, creating a striking contrast with the green foliage.

Each flower measures about 5 to 7 cm in length and has a sweet, pleasant scent reminiscent of violets, attracting many pollinators such as bees and butterflies. The flowering period lasts for several weeks.

The fruits are sticky, pod-shaped capsules that form after flowering. These brownish capsules measure about 3 to 5 cm in length and open at maturity, releasing the seeds.

Empress tree seeds are tiny, white, flat, light, and winged, allowing them to be easily dispersed by the wind.

- Uses:

It is primarily cultivated for the beauty of its flowers but also for its majestic stature. Its wood is very valuable; indeed, its lightness and strength are ideal for construction and furniture making. Its large leaves are also used for livestock feed and to improve soil quality due to their carbon-fixing capacity.

In traditional Chinese and Japanese medicine, various parts of the Paulownia are used for their properties.

It is also well-suited for the creation of bonsai.

- Germination and Sowing:

• It is highly recommended to sow Paulownia tomentosa at the beginning of March while the weather is still cold.
• Stratification of the seeds is mandatory before sowing, either naturally by leaving them outside in the cold for a few weeks, or artificially by placing them in the refrigerator for 4 to 6 weeks.
• Sow in a tray of fine potting soil, trying to space them at least 2 cm apart.
• Cover the seeds with only 1 to 2 millimeters of substrate.
• Water gently with a sprayer.
• Place the tray in a greenhouse at a temperature of 25°C.
• Germination can take between 2 and 4 weeks depending on the temperature.

- Substrate / Soil Type:

This tree grows very well in a well-drained substrate rich in organic matter. It can adapt to various soil types—clay, sandy, or loamy—as long as they are not too compact. Good soil aeration is essential for optimal root development.

- Exposure / Sunlight:

This species enjoys sunny exposures. A location in full sun promotes rapid growth and abundant flowering. It can tolerate light shade, but insufficient light may hinder its development.

- Temperature / Hardiness:

It is very hardy and can withstand temperatures as low as -20°C. However, it prefers a temperate climate and does not handle late frosts well, especially during its relatively early growth and flowering period.

- Watering / Water Needs:

Its water needs are moderate. It is important to water regularly during the first few years to establish a strong root system. Once well-established, it is more drought-tolerant, but watering during dry spells can promote better growth.

- Reproduction / Multiplication:

It reproduces mainly by seed or by cuttings. Propagation through suckers is also possible.

- Pests / Predators:

While generally resistant, it can be attacked by certain pests such as aphids in early spring. Fungal diseases can also affect the tree in humid conditions.