This is a Pawlonia or Princess Tree-an introduced-invasive species. They are trying to eradicate it from the area. It is really a problem down I-40 thru the Pigeon River Gorge. Just thought I would answer your Question. Chimney Rock is really a beautiful, magical place & you have captured that well on film.
Janie
Paulownia tomentosa - Empress Tree, the so called "Miracle Shade Tree" by weekend garden ads, as they can grow 8-10 feet a year when young.
John
14-Dec-2003 08:58
Hi Isabel--Our home in Vancouver WA has what we know as an "Emporer" tree. It has very large leaves, similar to a Catalpa Tree, and the pods that show in your image are filled with a white fiber very similar to cotton. Come spring about the time the temp moves into the 55 - 65 degree range, the tree breaks out in bloom, the tan colored round balls in your image are the starting point for the light to dark purple trumpet shaped blossoms, with a very sweet fragrance, akin to easter lilies, or lily of the valley. All of the wood I have seen from this tree has a hole in the middle of the branch, very peculiar looking to say the least.
