Princess tree
Paulownia tomentosa
Paulownia tomentosa, known as the empress tree, is an exceptionally fast-growing deciduous tree famous for …
Lilac paulownia (Paulownia lilacina)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
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Paulownia lilacina: Characteristics, Habitat, and Distribution
Thriving in the temperate regions of China, Paulownia lilacina develops as a stately deciduous tree. This species is admired for its rapid growth rate and its ecological role in forest ecosystems. It produces large, heart-shaped leaves that provide dense shade, followed by showy clusters of pale purple blossoms in spring.
The tree typically grows in mountainous forests and valleys, adapting well to a variety of soil types. Its wood is highly valued for its lightweight yet durable characteristics, making it useful in various traditional crafts.
Taxonomy
- ∟ царство Plantae
- ∟ division Tracheophytes (Vascular Plants)
- ∟ subdivision Spermatophytes (Seed plants)
- ∟ Angiosperms
- ∟ mesangiosperms (Core angiosperms)
- ∟ eudicots
- ∟ asterids
- ∟ order Lamiales
- ∟ family Paulowniaceae (Paulownia family)
- ∟ genus Paulownia (Empress tree)
- ∟ species Paulownia lilacina (Lilac paulownia)
Morphology
The morphology of this species is characterized by its broad, ovate leaves that can reach up to 30 centimeters in length. These leaves are typically arranged oppositely along the branches, featuring entire margins and a cordate base. When young, the foliage is densely covered with soft, glandular hairs, giving it a slightly sticky texture.
Key floral and seed characteristics include:
- Inflorescence: Large terminal panicles that contain numerous bell-shaped flowers.
- Corolla: Tubular-campanulate structures measuring 7 to 9 centimeters long, exhibiting a pale purple or lilac coloration.
- Fruit: Woody, ovoid capsules that mature in late autumn and split open to release seeds.
- Seeds: Extremely small, oblong, and equipped with membranous wings to facilitate wind dispersal.
Flowering season
Late spring, typically from April to May
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Applications
In regional forestry, this tree is highly valued for ecological restoration and soil stabilization projects. Its deep and wide-spreading root system helps prevent soil erosion on mountain slopes.
Other notable applications include:
- Timber Production: The lightweight, warp-resistant wood is ideal for making traditional musical instruments, cabinetwork, and veneers.
- Ornamental Landscaping: It is frequently planted in large parks and botanical gardens for its striking spring blooms and broad shade-providing canopy.
- Biomass: Due to its exceptionally fast growth rate, the species is researched as a potential source for biomass production.
Interesting facts
An intriguing characteristic of this plant is the presence of sticky glandular secretions on its young leaves. These secretions serve as a natural defense mechanism by deterring herbivorous insects from feeding on the tender foliage.
Additional facts about this species include:
- Pollution Tolerance: The tree shows a remarkable ability to filter airborne particulates and tolerate sulfur dioxide, making it useful in urban planting.
- C-3 Analogy: While technically a C3 plant, its photosynthetic efficiency under warm conditions allows it to accumulate biomass at a rate comparable to C4 plants.
Geography of distribution
- China
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF)
See also
Fortune's paulownia
Paulownia fortunei
A fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, cultivated for its lightweight timber and showy …
Sapphire Dragon Tree
Paulownia kawakamii
A critically endangered deciduous tree native to Taiwan and southern China, highly valued for its …
Elongate paulownia
Paulownia elongata
A remarkably fast-growing deciduous tree native to East Asia, cultivated for its lightweight timber, biomass …