Is the Palona/Princess Tree considered native to its region?

The Palona, commonly known as the Princess Tree (Paulownia tomentosa), is not considered native to North Carolina or the broader United States; it originally hails from China. This species was introduced to America in the early 1800s for ornamental purposes and timber production. Its non-native status indicates that it does not naturally occur in the environment of its adopted habitat, which includes parts of North Carolina.

Due to its introduction, the Princess Tree has been recognized as an invasive species in some areas. This means that it can outcompete native plants for resources, affecting local ecosystems negatively. Understanding the distinction between native and non-native species is crucial in forestry and ecology, as it influences biodiversity and habitat health.