Paulownia (Royal Empress Tree)
Paulownia tomentosa • Hardwood
Grain Pattern
Straight grain with a very coarse, porous texture; distinct growth rings similar to Ash but more lightweight in appearance
Color Description
Light blonde to pale grayish brown heartwood; sapwood is not clearly demarcated from heartwood. It maintains a silvery-grey luster and does not darken significantly with age.
Hardness Rating
300 lbf (Very Soft)
Durability Rating
Durable to Very Durable; surprisingly resistant to rot and decay for its weight, though susceptible to insect attack if untreated
Common Uses
Musical instruments (especially electric guitar bodies and traditional Asian instruments), surfboards, boat building, carving, chests, and lightweight furniture
Geographic Origin
Native to Eastern Asia (China); extensively cultivated and naturalized in North America and Europe
Market Value & Sustainability
Estimated Market Value
$6.00 - $10.00 per board foot
Wood Age Estimate
Recently milled modern lumber, likely from a fast-growing plantation tree under 15 years old
Sustainability Status
Not CITES listed; considered an invasive species in parts of North America but widely available via sustainable plantation growth
Workability
Excellent workability due to low density; easily planed and sanded, though it can be so soft that it crushes under dull tools. Glues and finishes well.
Notable Features
Exceptionally high strength-to-weight ratio; often called the 'aluminum of woods.' It is very dimensionally stable and has low thermal conductivity.
Finish Recommendations
Water-based polyurethanes or light oils to preserve the pale color. Requires a sanding sealer due to its high porosity.
Identification Confidence
High; the combination of the pale, silvery-tan color, very coarse open grain, and the visible lightweight 'fluffy' fiber structure is characteristic of Paulownia.