Plant Profile: Paulownia tomentosa

Originating from Eastern Asia, this species is recognized as invasive by the North Carolina Forest Service, the USDA National Invasive Species Information Center, and the Invasive Plant Atlas of the United States. It is characterized by its brittle wood and is often considered a messy, weedy tree. The tree casts a dense shade that hinders the growth of other plants beneath it and is resilient to air pollution and coastal environments. While it can thrive in low-fertility, highly acidic, and drought-prone conditions, it flourishes best in moist, well-drained soils that are not compacted.

In terms of site preferences, this species can tolerate various soil types but shows a clear preference for deep, moist, and well-drained soils.