Paulownia

Foxglove Tree

Description: A beautiful rounded tree producing fragrant, light lilac-purple flowers in large panicles on the bare branches in spring. The large leaves emerge coated in fine hairs, starting light green before turning mid-green and then golden-brown in the autumn.

If left unpruned, the foxglove tree will quickly grow to form an attractive tree up to 12m. The biggest leaves result from pruning it to the ground each year, in late winter. The result is strong, vigorous growth with huge leaves. As it flowers on wood grown the previous year, plants pruned each year won’t produce flowers.

History: Native to China, and introduced via Japan in 1834. Received the Royal Horticultural Society's Award of Garden Merit.

Paulownia Growing Tips: Grow in moist, humus-rich, fertile soils, in full sun or dappled shade. Choose a sheltered position to protect young trees from frost. Very tolerant of atmospheric pollution.

Height and Spread (after 10 years): 5m x 5m