Paulownia tomentosa

Princess Tree

Paulownia tomentosa, also known as the princess tree, originates from East Asia but has been introduced worldwide as an ornamental plant. The tree has gone wild in Europe, North America and Australia. Characteristic of the plant are its large, heart-shaped leaves and the striking blue-purple flowers. The tree is known for its fast growth rate - young specimens can grow up to 6 metres per year in the subtropics - and reaches a considerable height in just a few years. Paulownia tomentosa prefers disturbed sites and fertile soils and can grow in both sunny and semi-shady locations. It forms dense stands that can suppress other plants and thus impair local biodiversity. Nevertheless, it is still cultivated because of its attractive flowers and fast-growing wood.

Types of damage

Ecological damage

The rapid growth and ability to thrive in a variety of soil and climatic conditions make it easier for the princess tree to spread, especially on ruderal sites, but also along forest edges. This spread can alter vegetation structures and suppress native species.

Region of origin

East Asia

Introduction vectors

Horticulture

The princess tree was often planted in gardens and parks as an ornamental tree.

Botanical gardens

Original importation in botanical gardens and as an ornamental plant

Current distribution

Based on the FlorKart Database of the Federal Agency for Nature Conservation, as of 2013

Miscellaneous

Family

The Paulowniaceae family comprises only one genus, Paulownia, with about seven species. They are originally distributed in East Asia, especially in China and Japan.

Climate change

Paulownia tomentosa has already filled its potentially suitable habitat under current climate conditions. It benefits from climate change because in the future its potentially suitable habitat will increase. The environmental factors that most influence its spread are soil type, road infrastructure, spring temperature, summer precipitation and winter precipitation.

Positive effects

Like some other alien tree species (Douglas fir, black pine), the bluebell tree could be a real asset for forestry in the future. It is considered relatively hardy and well adapted to future climate conditions. Its wood is suitable for roof cantilevers, doors and windows, but can also be used for low-cost electric guitars, as a core for light touring skis and for surfboard cores.
Dispersion forecast

Indicates the proportion of land suitable for habitat under current and future climate conditions (2060-2080) under three emission scenarios (RCP26, RCP45 & RCP85).

Habitat suitability maps

Instructions for use: Click here

Habitat suitability under current climate conditions

These habitat suitability maps show for Paulownia tomentosa where suitable habitat conditions exist.

The map on the left shows this for current climate conditions. Below this are maps for the time classes 2040-2060 and 2061-2080, in which three different emission scenarios can be selected.

The slider at the top left allows you to adjust the opacity of the map to make orientation easier.

By clicking on the respective quadrant, information on the environmental conditions present in it can be called up.

The methodology is explained here .

Habitat suitability 2040 - 2060

2040-2060: In the RCP2.6 scenario, GHG emissions are expected to peak by 2040 through comprehensive mitigation measures and to decline rapidly thereafter. By 2060, global warming would stabilise at about 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. Subtle changes in precipitation patterns could vary regionally, with some areas facing increased drought and others increased precipitation.

2040-2060: Under RCP4.5, GHG emissions would continue to increase until 2040, but stabilise at a high level thereafter. By 2060, there could be a global temperature increase of about 2°C above pre-industrial levels. This scenario would likely cause moderate changes in precipitation patterns, with potential regional differences.

2040-2060: Under RCP8.5, which assumes continued intensive use of fossil fuels, greenhouse gas emissions would rise sharply by 2060. The global temperature increase could be around 2.5-3°C. In this scenario, significant changes in precipitation patterns could occur, with an increased likelihood of extreme weather events.

Habitat suitability 2061 - 2080

2060-2080: By 2080, global warming could be limited to below 2°C in the RCP2.6 scenario, provided emission reductions are consistently pursued. Impacts on precipitation patterns would likely stabilise, although regional variance would remain significant.

2060-2080: In the RCP4.5 scenario, global temperatures would continue to increase and could be around 2.5°C above pre-industrial levels by 2080. Changes in precipitation patterns would likely increase and regional differences could become more pronounced.

2060-2080: Under RCP8.5, global temperatures could rise by more than 4°C above pre-industrial levels by 2080. Precipitation patterns would be expected to change significantly, with further increases in the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events. This would have far-reaching impacts on ecological and socio-economic systems.