Paulownia Fortunei Seeds

€14,90
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Paulownia Fortunei, also known as the Fortune Tree, is a pure species of Paulownia highly prized in Asia for both its ornamental beauty and its valuable timber. It is one of the fastest-growing hardwood trees, capable of reaching impressive heights while producing lightweight, durable wood used for moldings, cabinets, veneers, furniture, and even musical instruments.

In Chinese and Japanese tradition, the tree is considered a symbol of prosperity and protection. It is often planted as a good-luck tree, and its high-quality wood is historically used to craft dowries, chests, and fine household items.

👉 Key characteristics:

Rapid growth: up to 3–4 m per year in favorable conditions.
Cold tolerance: withstands temperatures down to –18 °C.
Flowers: large, fragrant trumpet-shaped blossoms (lavender-purple outside, creamy white inside with yellow spots).
Wood quality: lightweight yet strong, widely used in fine carpentry and instrument making.
Ornamental value: lush, large leaves and dense shade, making it popular for parks and gardens.
Cultural heritage: deeply rooted in Asian traditions, symbolizing luck, beauty, and prosperity.

✔️ Excellent for ornamental planting, shade trees, furniture production, and specialty wood industries.
✔️ A prestigious Paulownia species, valued equally for aesthetics and timber.

📊 Technical Specifications

Type: Pure species (non-hybrid)
Genus / Species: Paulownia fortunei
Common name: Fortune Tree / Sapphire Tree
Height: 12–21 m (40–70 ft)
Spread: 9–15 m (30–50 ft)
Growth rate: Very fast (up to 3–4 m/year)
Cold resistance: –15 to –18 °C
Hardiness zones: 6–9
Soil pH: 4.5–7.5 (acidic to alkaline)
Soil type: Well-drained clay, loam, or sand
Exposure: Full sun / partial sun
Water requirements: Moderate
Bloom season: Spring to early summer
Flower color: Lavender-purple outside, creamy white with yellow/purple spots inside
Foliage: Large, light-green hairy leaves (up to 30 cm)
Germination rate: ~88%

Required Materials

Fine, sterile seed-starting mix (peat/coco + perlite), light and well-draining
Seed trays, small pots, or a mini-greenhouse
Fine mist sprayer or watering can with a soft rose
Clear lid, plastic film, or humidity dome
Thermometer or heat mat to maintain 20–25 °C (68–77 °F)
Bright growing area or horticultural LED light (PPFD 100–250 μmol/m²/s)

1) Stratification (Cold Treatment)

Optional but recommended to achieve uniform germination.

Mix the seeds with a slightly moist substrate (fine sand, vermiculite, or light seed mix).
Place the mixture in an airtight bag or sealed container.
Refrigerate at about 4 °C (39 °F) for 4–12 weeks.

2) Sowing

Fill containers with pre-moistened substrate (moist but not waterlogged).
Scatter the seeds on the surface — do not cover; they need light to germinate.
Mist gently with water.
Cover with a clear lid or humidity dome.
For large-scale production, use a misting chamber or heated propagation bench.

3) Germination Conditions

Temperature: 20–25 °C (68–77 °F), stable
Light: bright indirect light or LED grow lighting
Duration: usually 10–20 days
Substrate: always slightly moist, never waterlogged
Ventilation: avoid cold drafts but ensure minimal air exchange

4) After Germination (Critical Phase)

Open the lid slightly each day to reduce excess humidity.
Gradually increase ventilation to strengthen stems.
Remove the cover completely once seedlings have 1–2 true leaves.
Maintain strong light to prevent weak, elongated seedlings.

5) Transplanting & Early Growth

Transplant when seedlings reach 10–15 cm (4–6 in) or show 2–3 true leaves.
Use individual pots (7–10 cm) for optimal root development.
Keep plants in bright shade for 3–5 days after transplanting, then gradually expose them to full sun over 1–2 weeks.
Water moderately: avoid both drought and excess moisture.
Optional for production: apply a light, balanced fertilizer after 3–4 weeks (e.g. NPK 10-10-10).

PHASE 1 — POT CULTURE (UNDER COVER)

Objective: ensure maximum rooting success, protect plants from frost, and achieve uniform sprouting.

1) Rehydration (mandatory)

Before planting:

Soak the root cuttings in clean water for 5 minutes.
→ This reactivates the tissues and improves the success rate.

⚠️ Do not exceed 5 minutes.

2) Start Period

Early spring
Ideal temperature: 15–25 °C (59–77 °F)
Under a greenhouse, tunnel, or bright sheltered area

3) Pot Planting

Use individual pots for optimal root development and uniform emergence.

✔️ Root orientation

Place the thicker end upward (bud side).
Insert the root slightly angled (20–30°)
→ Promotes activation of the upper buds.

✔️ Covering

Cover the root with no more than 1 cm of substrate.
(Buds must remain close to the surface.)

4) Recommended Substrate

A heavy substrate slows down emergence. A light, airy mix ensures faster and stronger sprouting.

Use:

Fine horticultural potting mix
Light, well-draining substrate
Optional: perlite for extra aeration

‼️ Paulownia does not tolerate excess water.

5) Watering (pot phase)

Water moderately after planting.
Keep the substrate slightly and consistently moist.
Never waterlog the pot.
Avoid all standing water.

6) Sprout Emergence

Timing depends on temperature and conditions:

Sprouting usually occurs 3 to 8 weeks after planting.
Faster in warm and stable environments.

In case of cold weather or late frost:
→ Cover pots with frost protection fleece.