Native Plant Alternatives to Paulownia tomentosa (Princess Tree)

Paulownia tomentosa, also known as the princess tree or empress tree, is considered invasive in many areas. Originating from China, it was introduced into the United States in the 1800s as an ornamental tree.

Paulownia tomentosa can grow in a variety of soil types and conditions, but it particularly thrives in disturbed habitats such as roadsides, stream banks, and forest edges. It grows rapidly and has the ability to regenerate from root fragments, making it particularly competitive.

The tree produces large quantities of seeds that are easily spread by wind and water, facilitating its rapid colonization of new areas. Its growth can out-compete native plants, reducing biodiversity and altering habitats.

Princess Tree is listed in the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States.

According to the U.S Forest Service, Invasive species have contributed to the decline of 42% of U.S. endangered and threatened species and 18% of U.S. endangered or threatened species. Invasive species compete directly with native species for moisture, sunlight, nutrients, and space. They displace and alter native plant communities, degrade wildlife habitat and water quality, and potentially lead to increased soil erosion.

The federal government has estimated that nearly 25 percent of the 20,000 plant species native to North America are at risk of extinction, many of these through habitat loss. You can help reverse this trend by planting great native plants in your garden.

A plant is considered native if it occurs naturally in a particular region or ecosystem without human introduction. There are many benefits to growing native plants. First, these plants are better adapted to soils, moisture, and weather than exotic plants that evolved in other parts of the world. They need fewer fertilizers and pesticides or use less water. Second, they are unlikely to escape and become invasive, destroying natural habitats. Third, they support wildlife, providing shelter and food for native birds and insects, while exotic plants do not.