Paulownia tomentosa
foxglove tree
A broad, medium-sized deciduous tree with handsome ovate or shallowly-lobed leaves to 25cm in length. Fragrant, light lilac-purple flowers in large panicles. Fruits ovoid, thinly woody
Size
Ultimate height
8–12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Pink Purple | Green | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Green | |||
| Autumn | Green | |||
| Winter | Brown |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
West–facing or East–facing or South–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H5Botanical details
- Family
- Paulowniaceae
- Native to GB / Ireland
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Spreading branched
- Genus
Paulownia are deciduous trees with large, ovate leaves and erect panicles of foxglove-like flowers in spring; they can also be coppiced for extra-large leaves at expense of flowers
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- China, Korea
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in moist, humus-rich, fertile soils. Protect young trees from frost. Suitable for pollarding. Very tolerant of atmospheric pollution
Propagation
Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn or spring. Seed germinates best if exposed to light. Seedlings must be protected from frost
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Cottage and informal garden
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pruning group 1 or Pruning group 7 for foliage effect
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to honey fungus
Get involved
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