Royal Empress Tree Seeds

Royal Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) is a fast-growing deciduous tree known for its enormous heart-shaped leaves, beautiful lavender-purple flowers, and impressive growth rate. Also called the Princess Tree or Empress Tree, this ornamental species produces fragrant, trumpet-shaped blooms in spring that create a spectacular display before the foliage emerges. Its broad canopy provides excellent shade, while its tropical-looking leaves add a dramatic touch to landscapes. Royal Empress Trees are popular for their rapid growth, attractive flowers, and unique appearance, making them a striking choice for large properties and ornamental plantings where their spread can be managed.

Botanical Information

– Botanical Name - Paulownia tomentosa
– Common Name - Royal Empress Tree, Princess Tree, Empress Tree
– Plant Family - Paulowniaceae
– Plant Type - Deciduous Flowering Tree
– Mature Height - 30–50 Feet
– Mature Spread - 30–40 Feet
– Growth Rate - Very Fast, Up to 3–5 Feet Per Year Under Favorable Conditions
– Flower Color - Lavender to Purple
– Bloom Time - Spring
– Foliage - Large, Heart-Shaped Green Leaves
– USDA Hardiness Zones - 5–9
– Sun Requirements - Full Sun
– Soil Requirements - Well-Drained, Fertile Soil
– Water Requirements - Moderate
– Native Region - China

Germination Instructions

Step 1 – Prepare the Seeds

Royal Empress Tree seeds are extremely small and require careful handling. Mix the seeds with approximately equal parts dry, plain instant potato flakes to help distribute them more evenly during sowing. The potato flakes act as a carrier, making the tiny seeds easier to spread across the planting surface.

Step 2 – Prepare the Growing Container

Fill a shallow seed-starting tray with approximately 1 inch of fine, well-draining seed-starting mix. Moisten the soil evenly without making it soggy. Use a tray with a clear humidity dome or a transparent polyethylene covering to help maintain moisture while allowing light to reach the seeds.

Step 3 – Sow the Seeds

Sprinkle the seed and potato flake mixture evenly across the surface of the moistened soil. Do not bury or cover the seeds with soil, as Royal Empress Tree seeds require light for successful germination. Gently press the mixture against the soil surface to ensure good contact.

Step 4 – Provide Warmth, Light, and Moisture

Lightly mist the planting surface with water to keep the seeds moist without washing them away. Cover the tray with the clear humidity dome and place it in a warm location with plenty of bright, indirect light. Maintain temperatures around 70–80°F for optimal germination. Avoid intense direct sunlight while the tray is covered, as excessive heat can damage the seeds. Keep the soil consistently moist but never waterlogged.

Step 5 – Germination and Transplanting

Royal Empress Tree seeds typically germinate within 2–4 weeks under favorable conditions. Remove the humidity dome once green sprouts begin appearing to improve airflow and prevent excess moisture buildup. Continue misting the young seedlings lightly as needed. Thin crowded seedlings to provide adequate growing space. Once seedlings reach approximately 1 inch tall and develop their first true leaves, carefully transplant them into individual containers filled with quality potting soil. Gradually introduce them to stronger sunlight as they become established.

Growing Information

– Planting Location - Choose a sunny location with plenty of room for the tree's mature canopy.
– Sunlight - Requires full sun for vigorous growth and abundant flowering.
– Soil - Prefers fertile, well-drained soil but tolerates several soil types.
– Watering - Water regularly during establishment, allowing the soil surface to dry slightly between waterings.
– Growth Rate - Fast-growing species capable of producing several feet of new growth annually under ideal conditions.
– Flowering - Produces clusters of fragrant lavender-purple, trumpet-shaped flowers in spring.
– Foliage - Features exceptionally large, heart-shaped leaves that create a lush, tropical appearance.
– Pruning - Prune as needed to maintain structure and remove damaged or unwanted growth.
– Landscape Uses - Ornamental Specimen Tree, Shade Tree, Large Landscapes, and Flowering Tree Displays.
– Special Features - Rapid Growth, Fragrant Flowers, Large Decorative Leaves, and Broad Shade Canopy.
– Important Growing Note - Royal Empress Tree can spread aggressively through seeds and root sprouts and is considered invasive in parts of the United States. Check local planting regulations and avoid planting near natural areas where it may escape cultivation.

Seed Quantities Available

– 50 Seeds
– 100 Seeds