Family: Paulowniaceae

Origin, Description & Uses
Paulownia kawakamii (Kawakami paulownia) is a deciduous tree native to southern China and Taiwan. It is best known for its striking ornamental value, producing large, showy pale purple to lavender flowers in spring before the leaves fully emerge. The tree grows quickly and develops broad, heart-shaped leaves that create dense shade. In landscaping, it is often planted as a specimen or shade tree in mild climates. It has also been valued in some regions for lightweight timber production and for use in reforestation or soil stabilization projects due to its fast growth and ability to establish in disturbed areas.

Risks & Threats
This species is considered low risk and is not known to be invasive or naturalized in Hawaiʻi. It does not currently show strong tendencies to spread aggressively or displace native vegetation under local conditions. However, like other fast-growing ornamental trees, it should still be observed over time to ensure it does not escape cultivation or establish in sensitive habitats. At present, it is generally regarded as a well-behaved landscape species with minimal ecological concern for Hawaiian ecosystems when properly managed.

High Risk Traits:

• Congeneric weed (P. tomentosa invasive in US)
  
• Repeated introductions outside native range
  
• Produces viable seed
  
• Natural hybridization (e.g., with P. fortunei)
  
• Tolerates mutilation / coppices readily
  
• Dispersed intentionally by people (ornamental, agroforestry)
  
• Wind-dispersed (tiny, winged seeds)
  
• Prolific seed production (thousands per capsule)

Low Risk Traits:

• Not naturalized outside native range
  
• No documented weed impacts
  
• No spines, thorns, or burrs
  
• Palatable / used as animal fodder
  
• Non-toxic to animals
  
• No bird, external animal, or gut dispersal