Chinese Empress Tree Confirmation

East Bridgewater, MA

This was in the "wild" portion of Arnold Arboretum in Boston today. Those woody seed pods have to make this an Empress Tree, right? I've never seen one before so I want to be certain. Isn't it a bit north of it's usual range?

Thumbnail by neefman Thumbnail by neefman Thumbnail by neefman Thumbnail by neefman Thumbnail by neefman
Scott County, KY(Zone 5b)

Yes, Paulownia sp., since that's at the Arnold there may be another species besides P. tomentosa that I'm not familiar with.

I think the Arnold would be considered zone 6 at worst, so while north not really out of range.

If you want to see this plant at its invasive worst, visit the Great Smoky Mountains National Park and the surrounding national forests and countryside. Out of control.

East Bridgewater, MA

That's too bad. The worst invasive I see around here is Autumn Olive (or is it Russian Olive? Are they the same species). I have to beat down one in my back woods every now and then.

Thanks for your help VV!

Post a Reply to this Thread

Please or sign up to post.
BACK TO TOP