Nannyberry vs Empress Tree - TreeTime.ca

Nannyberry vs Empress Tree

Paulownia tomentosa

Viburnum lentago

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON

Empress Tree
Nannyberry

The Empress Tree is a fast growing, ornamental shade tree. It has purple, fragrant flowers that are quite attractive. The flowers emerge before the leaves in early spring. The leaves of this tree can grow very large, up to 30 cm long.

As one of the fastest growing trees in the world, this tree has been given considerable attention for carbon sequestration projects. It drops many seeds which can make it invasive in warmer climates. Please do some research and plant the right tree in the right place.

The Empress tree’s genus name comes from Princess Paulowna, daughter of Tsar Paul I of Russia.

Nannyberry is a hardy shrub known for attracting wildlife. Its clusters of white flowers and tasty berries are suitable for bees, birds, and other animals.

Nannyberry is also used in urban yards and landscaping. This shrub makes a beautiful ornamental and is small enough to grow underneath power lines. Its berries can be eaten fresh or used in baking and preserves.

Makes a great hedge or privacy screen in an urban yard. Often has great red fall color to complement its spring flowers.

Note: This species is currently unavailable. Grow your own using Nannyberry seeds at SeedTime.ca.

Empress Tree Quick Facts

Nannyberry Quick Facts

Lowest Price: $2.99 - SAVE UP TO 75%
Zone: 5a
Zone: 2b
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Height: 5 m (15 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 3 m (10 ft)
Moisture: normal
Moisture: any
Light: full sun
Light: partial shade, full sun
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no
Berries: red to purple
Flowers: light purple
Flowers: white
Bark: gray and scaly
Growth rate: very fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Suckering: medium
Suckering: medium




Other Names: chinese empress tree, foxglove tree, princess tree, royal paulownia
Other Names: sheepberry, sweet viburnum