| Paulownia tomentosa Royal paulowniaCulture: Paulownia prefers moist, well-drained soils in full sun, but can tolerate partial shade, other soil types, and air pollution. It must be protected from strong winds, as the leaves are easily torn and excessive cold will kill flower buds. Dirr reports that cold injury to the flower buds occurs at 0 to -5 degrees C. In areas along the East Coast, from Maryland to Georgia, the species has escaped cultivation, although Dirr reports it will give way to other species over time. There are occasional problems with mildew and leaf spots, but they are relatively infrequent. Lack of cold hardiness often results in flower bud death in mild Midwest winters and dieback of major limbs in colder winters. Usage: If it is planted in an area guaranteed to produce flowers, it almost seems worthwhile. Unfortunately, its coarse, unkempt winter habit and leaf litter in autumn definitely detract from the tree's landscape value. This species is being grown in Southern Illinois for export to Japan where a wide variety of utensils and coffins are constructed from the wood. Apparently, the wood does not warp with the changes in the seasons. The horticulturist at Fairmont Park in Philadelphia reported that the high value of the wood has resulted in tree rustling from the park in the middle of the city! |