Princess Tree: A Beautiful but Problematic Non-Native Tree
The princess tree (Paulownia tomentosa) might catch your eye with its stunning purple flowers and massive heart-shaped leaves, but before you fall head-over-heels for this fast-growing beauty, there are some important things every gardener should know. While this tree can certainly make a statement in the landscape, it comes with baggage that might make you think twice.
What is Princess Tree?
Princess tree, also known by its scientific name Paulownia tomentosa, is a deciduous tree that can grow impressively tall – we’re talking up to 70 feet at maturity! This perennial woody plant typically grows as a single-trunked tree, though it can sometimes develop multiple stems under certain conditions. With its rapid growth rate, it can reach 60 feet in just 20 years, making it one of the fastest-growing trees you’ll encounter.
The Invasive Reality
Here’s where things get complicated: Princess tree is not native to North America. Originally from China, Korea, and Japan, this introduced species has become a significant problem across much of the United States. It’s currently listed as invasive or prohibited in multiple states:
- Alabama: Category 2 invasive status
- Connecticut: Potentially invasive and prohibited
- North Carolina: Invasive
- Wisconsin: Prohibited
We strongly recommend against planting princess tree due to its invasive nature and tendency to escape cultivation and crowd out native plants.
Geographic Distribution
Despite its invasive status, princess tree has established itself across a wide swath of the country. You’ll find it growing (often uninvited) in Alabama, Arkansas, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Washington, and West Virginia.
Why It’s So Appealing (And Problematic)
It’s easy to see why gardeners might be tempted by princess tree. In mid-spring, before the leaves emerge, the tree produces clusters of fragrant, purple trumpet-shaped flowers that are absolutely gorgeous. The large, heart-shaped leaves (up to 12 inches wide) create dense summer shade, and the tree’s rapid growth means you won’t wait decades for results.
But here’s the catch: that same vigorous growth that makes it appealing also makes it invasive. The tree produces abundant seeds that spread easily, and it has strong resprouting abilities, making it difficult to control once established.
Growing Conditions and Care
If you encounter princess tree on your property (and many people do, whether they planted it or not), here’s what you should know about its preferences:
- USDA Hardiness Zones: 5-9
- Soil: Adapts to coarse and medium-textured soils, pH 4.5-7.5
- Sun: Full sun (shade intolerant)
- Water: Medium moisture requirements, medium drought tolerance
- Wetland Status: Obligate upland (almost never occurs in wetlands)
The tree is commercially available and can be propagated by seed, cuttings, bare root, or container. However, given its invasive status, purchasing and planting it is not recommended and may even be illegal in some areas.
Wildlife and Pollinator Considerations
While princess tree flowers do provide early-season nectar for bees and other pollinators, this benefit doesn’t outweigh the ecological damage it causes by displacing native plants that provide more comprehensive wildlife habitat throughout the growing season.
Better Native Alternatives
Instead of princess tree, consider these native alternatives that provide similar benefits without the invasive problems:
- Tulip Tree (Liriodendron tulipifera): Fast-growing native with distinctive flowers
- American Basswood (Tilia americana): Excellent for pollinators with fragrant flowers
- Red Maple (Acer rubrum): Fast-growing native with stunning fall color
- Sweetgum (Liquidambar styraciflua): Rapid growth with beautiful autumn display
The Bottom Line
While princess tree might seem like an attractive quick-fix for gardeners wanting fast shade and beautiful flowers, its invasive nature makes it a poor choice for responsible gardening. The tree’s ability to escape cultivation and outcompete native plants poses a real threat to local ecosystems. If you’re dealing with existing princess trees on your property, consider working with local extension services or invasive species management programs for removal advice.
Remember, the best gardens work with nature, not against it. By choosing native alternatives, you’ll get the beauty and function you want while supporting local wildlife and preserving the ecological balance that makes our landscapes truly sustainable.
