Paulownia is a genus of fast-growing deciduous trees known for their large, attractive leaves and beautiful flowers. The genus belongs to the family Paulowniaceae.
Here are some of the most common P. species available in the nurseries:
- Tomentosa – The most well-known and centuries old species of the plant is Paulownia Tomentosa. It is widely cultivated for its fast growth and beautiful purple flowers.
- Elongate – The tree grows rapidly. It is often used in agroforestry and for timber production.
- Fortunei – Native to central and western China, this species is commonly used in afforestation projects and for timber and wood products.
- Shan Tong – The Native to central and western China, Paulownia Shan Tong [Shantong hybrid] species is commonly used in afforestation projects and for timber and wood products.
- Catalpifolia – After three years the growth of this species slows down but the bright side is that the wood results in firmly growing annual rings. It is exclusively used in making plywood.
- Kawakamii – The tree is a good choice for planting in coastal areas due to its resistance to salt and wind.
Hybridization of P. trees involves crossbreeding two different cultivars of the same or different species to develop new varieties with desirable traits.
Here are some of the benefits and examples of hybridization:
- Improved growth rate: Hybridization can result in trees that grow faster and mature earlier than the parent species. For example, the hybrid P. elongata x P. fortunei has a growth rate of up to 4 meters per year, making it an excellent source of timber and biomass.
- Resistance to pests and diseases: Hybridization can develop trees that are resistant to pests and diseases prevalent in the local environment; for example, the hybrid P. Spp. x Shantong has resistance to Phytophthora blight, which causes severe damage to other paulownia species.
- Higher yield: Hybridization can result in trees with higher yields of timber and biomass than the parent species. For example, the hybrid P. fortunei x P. tomentosa has a high yield of dry weight biomass, making it a suitable species for bioenergy production.
- Better wood quality: Hybridization can create trees with desirable properties such as straightness, light color, and low knot density, making them ideal for furniture, flooring, and home construction. For example, the hybrid P. elongata x P. fortunei x P. tomentosa has high-quality wood with low knot density and straight grain.
- Climate adaptation: Hybridization can develop trees that are adapted to specific climatic conditions. For example, the hybrid P. tomentosa x P. tomentosa var. tsingtaoensis is adapted to cold regions and can grow in areas that other P. species cannot tolerate.
If you are considering planting paulownia trees for a project, then check the product catalog Paulownia Energy nursery at https://paulownia.energy/fr/. Each species differ and the choice will depend on the purpose of your project. For example, hybrids such as P. elongata x P. fortunei and P. tomentosa x P. fortunei are suitable for timber while P. fortunei may be an ideal choice for bioenergy.
It is essential to consult with a local nursery expert to guide you in choosing the best species suitable for your project.
