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Princess tree Facts

Princess tree Facts
Princess tree, also known as royal paulownia, is deciduous tree that belongs to the empress-tree family. It originates from China, but it can be frequently seen in Japan, Europe and North America today. It grows on the edges of the forests, steep rocky slopes, areas near the streams and along the roadsides. Princess tree tolerates various types of soil, but it requires plenty of sun (does not tolerate shade) for the successful growth. Princess tree has prolific nature and ability to quickly occupy new areas (especially wastelands and areas cleared with fire). It is classified as invasive in areas outside its native range. People cultivate princess tree in ornamental purposes and as a source of wood.
Interesting Princess tree Facts:
Princess tree can reach 30 to 60 feet in height and 2 feet in diameter (trunk).
Princess tree has rough, grayish-brown bark. Branches are glossy and covered with numerous white dots.
Princess tree produces large, heart-shaped leaves covered with hairs on both sides. Leaves are light green colored and arranged in opposite pairs along the branches.
Princess tree produces light violet, showy, snapdragon-like flowers arranged in large upright panicles at the end of the branches. Dense clusters of flowers precede development of leaves. Princes tree produces flowers with both types of reproductive organs (perfect flowers).
Princess tree blooms during the spring (usually from April to May). Flowers emit pleasant fragrance which attracts insects, responsible for the pollination of this plant.
Fruit of princess tree is pecan-shaped brown capsule filled with up to 2 thousand seed. Fruit ripens during the autumn and remains on the tree throughout the winter.
Princess tree can produce 20 million seed per season. Seed is equipped with wings which facilitate dispersal by wind. Water also plays important role in spreading of seed in the wild.
Princess tree propagates via seed and root sprouts.
Princess tree starts to produce flowers 8 to 10 years after planting.
Princess tree is named in honor to Anna Pavlovna (better known as Anna Paulowna), wife of Prince Willen of the Netherlands.
Princess tree has strong root system which can prevent erosion of the soil.
Wood of princess tree is valuable in Japan. It is mostly used for the manufacture of Japanese and Korean musical instruments.
Planting of princess trees is old tradition, aimed to celebrate birth of girls in China. This tree reaches maturity at the same time as the girls. Just before the marriage, princess trees are cut and used for the manufacture of wooden items that represent dowry.
Soft, light-weight seeds of princess tree were used to support and prevent breaking of porcelain during its transportation in 19th century in China.
Princess tree is perennial plant that can survive more than 70 years in the wild.


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