Princess tree
Paulownia tomentosa
Paulownia tomentosa, known as the empress tree, is an exceptionally fast-growing deciduous tree famous for …
Silvestri's paulownia (Paulownia silvestrii)
Silhouette: T. Michael Keesey
/ License
Paulownia silvestrii - Rare Montane Tree of China
Endemic to the mountainous regions of central China, this rare deciduous tree remains a subject of intense botanical interest due to its localized distribution. It grows primarily in deciduous forests and valleys, adapted to temperate montane climates. Unlike its more famous relatives, it is rarely seen in cultivation outside botanical collections.
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 silvestrii (Silvestri's paulownia)
Morphology
The morphology is similar to other members of the genus but distinguished by specific leaf and floral details. Its leaves are typically smaller and less deeply lobed than those of related species. The inflorescences are composed of pale purple flowers with distinct internal markings.
- Leaves: Ovate-cordate, up to 20 cm long, with glandular pubescence, especially along the veins.
- Flowers: Pale lavender to purple, campanulate, with a slightly curved corolla tube.
- Capsules: Ellipsoid, woody, containing winged seeds characteristic of the genus.
Flowering season
Spring, typically during April and May
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Name
Dec
Applications
Due to its rarity and restricted wild distribution, this species has limited commercial applications. Locally, it may be used for firewood or minor timber craft, but its primary value lies in scientific research regarding the evolutionary history of the genus.
Interesting facts
The specific epithet honors Renato Silvestri, who collected numerous botanical specimens in central China during the early 20th century. This species is an important component of the local forest ecosystem, providing habitat and resources for native insect pollinators.
Geography of distribution
- China
Sources
- Plants of the World Online (POWO)
- World Flora Online (WFO)
- Tropicos
- 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 …