Empress Tree vs Eastern Redbud
Paulownia tomentosa
Cercis canadensis
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.
The Eastern Redbud is known for the pea-like pink buds that emerge in clusters on the bark, embellishing the tree in stunning flowers. They have a longer bloom time, sometimes for two to three weeks before the heart-shaped leaves emerge for the summer. Inedible pods emerge that turn brown in the summer, this tree is a part of the bean family.
Native to the Eastern North America. The Eastern Redbud can tolerate acidic and alkaline soil. Plant this as a beautiful understory species or shaded residential yard or garden. The bright pop of color will make an attractive ornamental tree.