Japanese use of Paulownia can be traced back to A.D. 200. A tradition was developed that when a family had a daughter they would plant a Paulownia tree. When she married the tree would be cut down and made into her wedding chest. They also believed that when the tree was planted close to the house that the Pheonix would come and bring them good luck.

      China has historically been the largest grower of Paulownia. They use the wood for making furniture, housing construction, toys, plywood, musical instruments and for packaging.

      The tree made its way to the United States in the mid 1800s. Paulownia seed was used as packaging material for delicate porcelain dishes on their journey across the Pacific. Once unpacked, the tiny wind blown seeds became naturalized throughout the eastern states.

      Since the 1970s Japan has not been able to grow enough Paulownia to meet its high demand. They have a great appreciation for the appearance of the wood and most Japanese households have at least one piece of furniture made out of Paulownia. OnceAmericans became aware of the Japanese demand, trees growing in the wild were harvested and sold at great prices. Even today, the Japanese are the largest buyers of old growth Paulownia.

      Fast growth varieties of Paulownia were cloned to produce a light, strong wood that could be harvested in about 10 years. These trees are now produced from tissue cultures and are grown in well-maintained plantations. These special tree farms are predominating in the Orient.

      China alone has 1.2 billion Paulownia trees growing. Promising investment programs have been created by innovative companies like Kiri Park in Australia. Large Paulownia plants are replacing diminishing natural hardwood like Western Red Cedar. Aggressive planting programs have also been established in North, South and Central America.

      During the 1990s many Paulownia Plantations were established primarily in the mid-Atlantic and southeastern United States. These Plantations are now ready to harvest the high quality lightweight wood. The faster growing Paulownia is an affordable alternative to the increasingly rare naturally growing variety. Paulownia can also be used as an alternative to Balsa, Maranti and Basswood.