Paulownia
The fast growing Paulownia tree offers numerous advantages due to its unique biological and physical properties. Our non-invasive hybrid has been adapted to prevailing, European climatic conditions. Our trees are ready for harvesting in 10 – 12 years with trunk diameters up to 45 cm.
The first Paulownia trees were introduced in Europe in 1834. Due to its bell-shaped blossoms, the tree is also known as the foxglove. The many naturally growing types of Paulownia in Europe include Paulownia tomentosa and Paulownia elongata. A third type of Paulownia, however, known as Royal Treeme was specially bred and selected for the Treeme project. As opposed to other types of Paulownia grown in Europe, Royal Treeme is not invasive, meaning as a hybrid it cannot propogate out of control.
Properties
Growth
Paulownia is one of the fastest growing trees in the world that produces an extremely high quality wood. It reaches its final height within the first 12 to 15 years, and depending on the type, Paulownia can grow up to 15 meters high. The trunk can have a diameter of from 35 to 45 cm after just 10 - 12 years. Vigorous young plants can increase in height by approximately four meters per year. The annual rings thus have a width of two to four centimeters. Due to this property it is highly suited for use as a short rotational crop.
Weight
Paulownia wood is very light. It weighs approximately 300 kg per cubic meter as opposed to varieties of oak that can weigh from 540 – 700 kg per cubic meter – in other words, approximately half that of oak.
Hardness
Paulownia is classified as a hardwood. Despite its relatively soft surface, the load-bearing capability – parallel to the grain – and dimensional stability of Paulownia make it similar to or superior that of oak.
Flammability
The auto ignition temperature of Paulownia is approximately 425°C. By comparison, the auto ignition temperature of other woods, including oak, is around 200 – 250°C. This means that Paulownia ignites at approximately 200 degrees higher, making it naturally fire resistant.
Drying
Paulownia dries quickly in the air. The moisture content is usually 10 to 12% within 30 to 60 days. Kiln drying can achieve this level within just 24 to 48 hours. The wood maintains its shape and does not warp during this time.