This also, as far as at present known, is a monotypic genus. It is a tree of moderate size with very large opposite ovate-cordate deciduous leaves clothed with a greyish woolly tomen-tum, and terminal panicles of purplish-violet spotted fragrant flowers. It has been referred to Bignoniaceae, but the 4 stamens, albuminous, though winged, seeds, etc., seem to indicate its position in this order. The genus was named in honour of a Russian princess.

1. P. imperialis (fig. 187). - This is a distinct hardy fast-growing tree, but in consequence of the flowers being formed in the Autumn preceding the Spring when they should expand, they are often destroyed by frost. It is a native of Japan.

Scrophularia, Fig-wort, is a genus of tall leafy herbs with terminal narrow cymose panicles of dull-coloured flowers. Two species are common in wet places in this country.

Fig. 187. Paulownia imperialis. (1/4 nat. size.)