Empress Tree vs Sensation Lilac - TreeTime.ca

Empress Tree vs Sensation Lilac

Paulownia tomentosa

Syringa vulgaris Sensation

NOT AVAILABLE THIS SEASON - MIGHT RETURN

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2026)

Empress Tree
Sensation Lilac

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.

Sensation Lilac is an outstanding shrub known for its fragrant, bicolor flowers. In mid-spring, stunning purple flowers with white borders emerge and cover the entire plant.

Once the flowers bloom, they give off a beautifully sweet scent that is enjoyed by people, butterflies, hummingbirds, and other wildlife. Plant Sensation Lilac in full sun to produce the most vibrant flower color.

Staff Favorite!

Empress Tree Quick Facts

Sensation Lilac Quick Facts

Zone: 5a
Zone: 3a
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Height: 2.4 m (8 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 1.8 m (6 ft)
Light: full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: normal
Moisture: normal
Growth rate: very fast
Growth rate: medium
Life span: medium
Life span: short
Suckering: medium
Suckering: high
Maintenance: high
Maintenance: medium


Flowers: light purple
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


Other Names: chinese empress tree, foxglove tree, princess tree, royal paulownia