To learn more about the basic biology of exotic relative to native tree species we conducted a greenhouse experiment comparing the germination and early seedling growth of four early successional tree species found in the southeastern United States: two exotics (Ailanthus altissima and Paulownia tomentosa) and two natives (Liquidambar styraciflua and Platanus occidentalis). Five soil types and three water regimes were used for the experiment. Liquidambar and Platanus, the native species, germinated significantly more quickly and were more sensitive to soil type than were the exotics, Ailanthus and Paulownia. Platanus grew tallest, and along with Paulownia, accumulated the greatest total biomass. Ailanthus alone exhibited a high root/shoot ratio in all soil types. In addition, species differed in their response to soil types for multiple growth traits. The results suggest that native tree species could be used to help retard the establishment of invasive tree species on bare soil.