Chapter 2The genus

Paulownia species

Flora of China recognizes 7 species. Some authors count more when they include hybrids and closely related forms. The most widely cultivated are P. elongata, P. fortunei, P. tomentosa, and hybrids between them. We grow P. fortunei because of its straight trunk and timber quality.

P. catalpifoliaDrought tolerant. Used in hybrids for dry sites.

P. elongataFast, upright. Common in plantations.

P. fargesiiMountain species of western China.

P. fortuneiOur production species. Tall, straight timber form.

P. kawakamiiCompact, ornamental. Least cold hardy.

P. taiwanianaNative to Taiwan.

P. tomentosaWide crown, most cold hardy. Naturalized widely in the eastern US.