princess tree

American  

noun

1. a Chinese tree, Paulownia tomentosa, of the bignonia family, having hairy leaves and clusters of fragrant, violet flowers, naturalized in the eastern U.S.

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Etymology

Origin of princess tree

An Americanism dating back to 1930–35

Example Sentences

The princess tree, Paulownia tomentosa, is a fast-growing, coarse-leafed tree with showy exotic blooms that belie its hardiness.

From Washington Post

Lacy never forgot his roots in Depression-era Texas, and in his prose he projects a person who is a realist and averse to fulsomeness, the princess tree notwithstanding.

From Washington Post

The place to eat here is on the back patio, under the shade of the giant princess tree, whose limbs and oversized heart-shaped leaves cover much of the dining area.

From Washington Post