Hippie Tree
I took a look at the information you referred us to regarding the empress splendor tree.
This appears to be some exotic, probably of Asian origin. From the looks of its leaves, it may be related to the fast-growing
Pawlonia tomentosa. The wood produced by this species is of low density and therefore likely not a particularly efficient fuel. That being said, there has been and continues to be considerable research spent on fast growing "firewood crops" for use in less resource abundant areas of the world where wood is the the primary heating and cooking fuel source.
In the U.S., as a forester, I would not recommend plantations of this type of fuelwood crop. We are blessed with an abundance of native species that have greater value for their structural and appearance lumber attributes. Most of these also produce acceptable firewood as part of the non-merchantable waste stream (tops, thinnings, crooked/damaged logs). Furthermore, exotic species can be very site-specific in their silviculture and it might be easier to grow plantations of native species. Also, many exotics become problematic if they outcompete native species. Thus, in Ohio, I would recommend focusing on good management of your woodlot to produce merchantable timber and view the byproducts of management as your fuelwood source.
That being said, I noticed the following quotation on the website. It does seem like there are some external benefits to this species:
"Its broad leaf and blossoms clusters soak up bad odors and negative energy and immediately help restore the visual, olfactory, and psychic feel and appeal of the area around it."
Thus, I think this should be named the "Hippie Tree".
Cheers.
