Mystery tree on UNC campus

[pdbrandt]

Dear NTS,

Can you help me identify this interesting tree that is currently flowering on UNC campus? Is it Paulownia tomentosa?

Thanks!

[bountreehunter]

Thats exactly what it looks like to me.
Dan

[TN_Tree_Man]

You've got the correct id. This exotic tree has pretty flowers but is very invasive in the Southeast.

Steve Springer

[pdbrandt]

Thanks, Steve and Dan. From a distance the blooms look like a wisteria vine - another aggressively invasive plant in the Southeast.

[Will Blozan]

Gag-a maggot- cut it down!

[bountreehunter]

Will, Granted they are not perfect but Gag a Maggot???

[Chris]

bountreehunter, that is a lovely picture!

[Jess Riddle]

bountreehounter,

The tree in your photo has been needling at me ever since you posted it. I knew right away it wasn't a paulownia, buts it's taken me until know to figure out that it's a jacaranda.

Jess