Paulownia Varieties Guide
An in-depth look at the 8 Paulownia varieties we offer — their origin, growth behaviour, cold tolerance, ideal uses and how to grow them. Use this guide to choose the variety best suited to your project.
Hybrid varieties
Hybrids are crosses selected for vigour, growth speed and genetic stability. They are propagated through root cuttings to keep their exact characteristics. Ideal for timber, agroforestry and large-scale plantations.
Available as root cuttings & XL cuttingsNon-hybrid species
Pure species reproduce true to type from seed. They offer the authentic character of Paulownia and suit ornamental projects, hedges and growers who want to start from scratch.
Available as seeds & root cuttings
Hybrid
Pao Tong Z07
Super-hybrid · 3 parent speciesOne of the most popular and versatile hybrids on the market. Pao Tong Z07 is a super-hybrid combining three parent species, valued for its strong vigour and broad adaptability across soil types and climates.
Hybrid
Shan Tong
Cold-resistant reference hybridA hybrid specifically selected for its cold resistance and production stability. Shan Tong is the go-to variety for Central and Eastern Europe and any project facing harsher winters, while remaining versatile in milder regions.
Hybrid
Hybrid 9501
Robust all-rounderA robust hybrid frequently chosen for projects on variable terrain. Hybrid 9501 has a reputation for good establishment under suitable conditions, making it a dependable choice for a wide range of temperate plantations.
Hybrid
Hybrid 9502
Close cousin of 9501Hybrid 9502 shares many characteristics with 9501 and behaves similarly in the field. It is worth considering depending on your specific growth preferences and project goals — our team can help you decide between the two.
Hybrid
9503 Oxytree
The agro-ecological favouriteAlso known under the name "Oxytree", the 9503 hybrid is prized in many agro-ecological projects. It is well suited to specific soil and climate conditions and has become a recognized name in sustainable Paulownia plantations.
Non-hybrid
Tomentosa
The European classicThe most well-known and classic Paulownia species in Europe. Tomentosa is celebrated for its large, fragrant purple flowers and elegant natural form. As a pure species, it reproduces true to type from seed — perfect for ornamental projects and growers starting from scratch.
Non-hybrid
Elongata
Slender & warm-lovingA pure species with a notably slender, upright habit — often chosen for hedges, windbreaks and vertical structures. Elongata thrives in warm conditions, making it a strong candidate for Mediterranean and subtropical projects.
Non-hybrid
Fortunei
The warm-climate referenceA pure species reputed for its relative cold tolerance combined with excellent heat performance. Fortunei is a reference for Mediterranean, warm and subtropical regions, and a symbol of prosperity in Asia. A versatile choice for southern growers.
All varieties compared
A side-by-side summary to help you narrow down your choice. Always confirm with your local conditions.
| Variety | Type | Growth | Cold tolerance | Best use | Available as |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pao Tong Z07 | Hybrid | Very fast | Good (established) | Timber, agroforestry | Cuttings · XL |
| Shan Tong | Hybrid | Fast, stable | Excellent | Cold regions, timber | Cuttings · XL |
| Hybrid 9501 | Hybrid | Fast, robust | Moderate–good | Variable terrain | Cuttings · XL |
| Hybrid 9502 | Hybrid | Fast | Moderate–good | Timber, trials | Cuttings · XL |
| 9503 Oxytree | Hybrid | Fast, uniform | Moderate–good | Agro-ecology, biomass | Cuttings · XL |
| Tomentosa | Non-hybrid | Fast | Good | Ornamental, hedges | Seeds · Cuttings |
| Elongata | Non-hybrid | Fast, slender | Lower | Hedges, warm climates | Seeds · Cuttings |
| Fortunei | Non-hybrid | Fast (warm) | Relatively good | Warm & subtropical | Seeds · Cuttings |
Not sure which variety is right for you?
Tell us about your climate, soil and project goals — we'll recommend the Paulownia variety best suited to your situation.