Family: Paulowniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Paulownia elongata, commonly known as paulownia, is native to Central and East-Central China. It is a fast-growing deciduous tree valued for its large, heart-shaped leaves and showy purple flowers that appear in spring. This species is widely cultivated around the world for its lightweight, strong timber, which is used in furniture, musical instruments, plywood, and specialty wood products. It is also planted as an ornamental shade tree and has been used in reforestation, agroforestry systems, and carbon sequestration efforts due to its rapid growth and ability to store carbon quickly.

Risks & Threats
Paulownia elongata is considered low risk, and it is not known to be naturalized in Hawaiʻi. While it can produce abundant seeds and grows quickly under favorable conditions, there is little evidence that it spreads aggressively or disrupts native ecosystems in island environments. At this time, it is generally regarded as a well-managed ornamental and forestry species, though continued monitoring is always recommended when introducing fast-growing non-native trees to ensure they do not establish beyond intended plantings.

High Risk Traits:

• Repeated introductions outside native range
  
• Congeneric weed (P. tomentosa invasive)
  
• Hybridizes naturally
  
• Wind-dispersed, viable seed
  
• Intentionally cultivated
  
• Prolific seed production
  
• Tolerates mutilation (suckering, coppicing)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized elsewhere
  
• Not a weed
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Not allelopathic
  
• Palatable & non-toxic to animals
  
• Low flammability
  
• Shade intolerant
  
• No unintentional dispersal mechanisms