Properties of Paulownia Wood

Paulownia Tree Description

Three species of paulownia trees thrive in the U.S., including the Paulownia tomentosa, Paulownia elongate and Paulownia fortunie. Paulownia trees also have an ornamental value. They produce large, heart-shaped leaves that can measure up to three-feet across. Large showy flowers bloom in April, each with five lobes.

All three varieties can be started from rootstocks, root cuttings or from seed. This exotic tree is considered invasive because of how easily the seeds spread, starting the growth of new trees. The paulownia is a fast-growing tree and can be cultivated in just 10 to 15 years for domestic use within the U.S. or 30 to 35 year for export to Japan. The longer this tree grows, the tighter the grain of the wood becomes, resulting in a higher-grade wood that can be sold for more money.

Paulownia wood has many properties that make it an appealing wood. This light-weight wood weighs jut 16.55 pounds per cubic foot, which is 66 percent lighter than other woods sold commercially throughout the U.S. Although light, this is a very strong wood that is resistant to cracking and splitting, even when nails or screws are driven into it. Because this wood is much softer before it is dried than after it is dried, it is an ideal selection for carving, peeling and woodworking. This fire-resistant wood has an average ignition temperature of 788 degrees Fahrenheit where most hardwoods ignite at just 428 degrees Fahrenheit. Because it takes just 30 to 60 days for this wood to dry, kiln drying is not required. If a kiln is used to dry the wood, it takes 36 to 60 hours.

In Japan, paulownia wood has been grown as a crop for its wide variety of uses. Among the most popular uses are in the manufacturing of plywood panels and furniture. The highest quality pieces of wood are also used to make kotos, guitar, banjo, zithers and harps. Household items such as gift boxes, shoes, paneling and jewelry boxes are also made from this versatile wood. The lesser quality wood that is not sold to Japan is used in the country where it is grown to make lumber, veneer and plywood.