Foxglove Tree
Paulownia tomentosafam. Scrophulariaceae
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Pl. CAFC — Paulownia tomentosa
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IOverview
Overview
The Foxglove Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southeastern regions as well as parts of Korea and Manchuria. Known for its ornamental value and utility in horticulture, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay. It grows up to 15 meters tall and is hardy in zones 6-9. The tree's distinctive feature includes its large, heart-shaped leaves and showy purple flowers that resemble foxglove bells. Both the leaves and flowers are edible, making it a versatile addition to gardens and landscapes.
Quick answers
What is Foxglove Tree?
The Foxglove Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) is a deciduous tree native to China's central and southeastern regions as well as parts of Korea and Manchuria. Known for its ornamental value and utility in horticulture, this plant thrives in full sun with moist soil that can range from light sandy to heavy clay.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
The Foxglove Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) thrives in full sun and prefers moist, well-drained soils that are light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 6-9 and can grow up to 15 meters tall. For propagation, it can be grown from seeds or cuttings. The tree's edible parts include its flowers and leaves. Soil pH should range between 4.5 and 7.5 for optimal growth.
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
6-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
15.0 m tall
Soil pH
4.5–7.5
For first-time growers
How to grow Foxglove Tree for the first time
7steps
Start with planting Foxglove Tree in a sunny spot and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Foxglove Tree seeds or young plants, garden gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant in spring after the last frost or in early fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). Ensure the pH is between 4.5 and 7.5.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground or start young plants indoors before transplanting them outdoors.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide full sun, regular watering, and occasional pruning to maintain shape. Mulch around the base to retain moisture.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune in late winter before new growth starts to encourage a healthy shape.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersLeaves
Edible uses: The Foxglove Tree (Paulownia tomentosa) is edible and its flowers and leaves can be consumed. The leaves are often eaten raw in salads or cooked as a vegetable. The flowers may also be used fresh or dried for culinary purposes.
Other uses:Fire starterLumberFragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
5 native · 25 introduced
Distribution
5 native · 25 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 5 native· 25 introduced
Asia4 regions
native (2)ChinaSouth Korea
introduced (2)TurkmenistanUzbekistan
Americas1 region
introduced (1)United States
Broader regions
introduced:Delaware, District of Columbia, Florida, Illinois, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Mississippi, Missouri, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode I., South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXSee also
8 related
See also
8 relatedPlants you might compare or use together — scored by shared family (Scrophulariaceae), common use cases, and growing requirements.
same family · Scrophulariaceae
Botanical relatives — often share phytochemistry + growing needs.
XI
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Growing zone
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