Yes, it is Paulownia tomentosa, a non-native invasive weed tree. Here is a link that might be useful: North Carolina invasive plants

Not sure why the message did not post, but again... we are having serious storms here. I want to send out a BIG THANK YOU!!! You are so unbelievably helpful! EG

Nice Pictures! I can answer your question. That black snake is a black rat snake. Was that midland water snake (subspecies of the northern water snake) found at LaRue Road. I have never found a midland water there before. In fact I don't think I know anyone who has seen one there either. I'm sure they have a good population there, but it surprises me that you saw one. They generally inhabit lakes, creeks and rivers. One doesn't usually see a midland or northern water snake in cypress swamp. I have seen them up north in oxbow lakes. I did see a midland water snake at Mingo swamp in a ditch, but that is far as my northern water snake experience goes. Nice find. Ryan

I think you might be right. You’re so good at this game. Haha. I’ve had it for about a month now and it sits in my Western window that receives the most sun, but it’s too cold and rainy to leave it outside for the next season. In spring I’ll acclimate it to go outdoors for a vacation. Does the upwards growth habit come from being outdoors also? The leaves don’t feel “droopy” on mine like it’s unhappy. But it has quite a bit of new growth in the last month but it just mounds. And it’s not “leggy” at all. Thank you again!