Yes, across much of the eastern United States, where the empress tree, a fast growing ornamental from China also known as princess tree, is considered invasive. Its wind carried seeds colonize roadsides, stream banks, and disturbed or burned forest, and a cut tree resprouts readily from its stump and roots.

Why does the empress tree spread so easily?

Because of its seed output and speed. A single tree can release millions of tiny winged seeds a year from its capsules, the seeds travel on wind and water, and seedlings on open, disturbed ground can grow several feet in their first season.

How is an empress tree recognized?

By its very large, heart shaped leaves and its pale violet, fragrant flowers that open in spring before the leaves appear. Clusters of brown, egg shaped seed capsules hang on the branches through winter, and the twigs have a hollow or chambered pith, the soft tissue at the center of a stem.

How is an unwanted empress tree removed?

By killing the roots, not only cutting the trunk. Cutting alone leads to vigorous sprouting from the stump and roots.

Applying Stump Out Stump & Vine Killer Concentrate to the fresh cut with its applicator cap, right after felling, treats the stump with triclopyr, and the product is described as keeping stumps from resprouting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can empress tree seedlings be pulled by hand?

Yes, while they are small. Seedlings pull most easily from moist soil, and the whole root is removed so it cannot sprout again.

Does cutting off the seed capsules help?

It slows the spread. Removing capsule clusters before they split open reduces seed release, though it does not stop sprouts from the roots.

Does the empress tree crowd out native forest?

Mainly on disturbed ground. It takes hold quickly on open, sunny sites but rarely establishes under a closed forest canopy.

Is royal paulownia the same tree?

Yes. Empress tree, princess tree, and royal paulownia are all common names for Paulownia tomentosa.