Princess tree
Paulownia tomentosa
Paulownia tomentosa, known as the empress tree, is an exceptionally fast-growing deciduous tree famous for …
Arising as a hybrid between two prominent species, Paulownia × intermedia represents an intermediate form in the family Paulowniaceae. This plant combines the morphological characteristics of its parents, Paulownia coreana and Paulownia tomentosa.
It was formally described by the botanist T.B. Lee in 1983, highlighting its unique taxonomic status within the genus.
Morphological features of this hybrid are intermediate between its parental species. The leaves are large, broadly ovate, and cordate at the base, displaying varying degrees of hairiness.
Its flowers are borne in large terminal panicles, featuring tubular, pale purple or violet corollas that resemble those of both parent plants.
Spring
Like its parent species, this hybrid is valued for forestry, land reclamation, and timber production. The wood is exceptionally lightweight, warp-resistant, and suitable for manufacturing musical instruments and cabinetry.
The name × intermedia denotes its intermediate status, bridging the characteristics of its two parent species. It represents a classic case of hybridization within the genus, which often complicates taxonomic classification.
Paulownia tomentosa
Paulownia tomentosa, known as the empress tree, is an exceptionally fast-growing deciduous tree famous for …
Paulownia fortunei
A fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, cultivated for its lightweight timber and showy …
Paulownia kawakamii
A critically endangered deciduous tree native to Taiwan and southern China, highly valued for its …
Paulownia elongata
A remarkably fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, cultivated for its lightweight timber, biomass …