Paulownia elongata

Paulownia elongata is a species of plant in the Paulowniaceae family. It is used as a forestry tree in North America and China. It is reportedly the fastest growing hardwood tree, which are known to grow up to 15 or more feet in the first year. Commercial plantations are normally established from selected clones resulting from micropropagation. Some proponents claim that P. elongata plantations can reach a harvestable size in five to seven years. Leaves are very large and pubescent. This species can withstand a very wide range of environmental conditions, however, it will not grow at altitude.

P. elongata has a number of uses:

• An ornamental tree of parks and gardens; grown for its purple flowers and shade tolerance.
• It is a forestry tree producing strong, yet light wood.
• Owing to the large quantity of biomass produced annually, it is suited for use as a feedstock for biofuel production.