catalpa
( kuh - TAL - puh )
At-A-Glance InformationThis genus of deciduous trees needs full sun to light shade and moderate to regular water for best performance. Leaves are large and heart-shaped, flowers give the tree a tropical look. Flowers are commonly white, marked with yellow or soft brown, and are followed after blooming in spring and summer by long seedpods that are sometimes called Indian Beans. These trees can be a bit messy, flowers and seed capsules can make for a bit of clean up.
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Catalpa Species and Varietals
The genus Catalpa includes 8 species and is a member of the plant family Bignoniaceae. Catalpa trees grow well in zones 3-10 and 14-24, though this varies somewhat depending on the species grown. To find your zone, click here: Zone Map.
Catalpa bignonioides (Common Catalpa, Indian Bean, Cigartree, Southern Catalpa)
This species is native to the southeastern United States and reaches 30-40 feet tall and about as wide. It is resistant to Oak Root Fungus, but does not tolerate alkaline soils well. The species and its varieties listed below are commonly used as street and shade trees.
This species is native to the southeastern United States and reaches 30-40 feet tall and about as wide. It is resistant to Oak Root Fungus, but does not tolerate alkaline soils well. The species and its varieties listed below are commonly used as street and shade trees.
Catalpa bungei (Manchurian Catalpa) Reaches 25 feet tall with a pyramidal shape. Flowers are purple and spotted with white and pink. These trees are native to China, and the species is named for botanist Alexander Bunge. |
Catalpa fargesii (Chinese Bean Tree) This native of China reaches over 80 feet tall at maturity, and produces white to pink or purple flowers in abundance in spring and summertime. Blooms commonly have darker markings and yellow staining towards the center. Leaves are downy on their undersides, and foliage is green. |
Catalpa speciosa (Northern Catalpa, Hardy Catalpa, Western Catalpa, Cigar Tree, Catawba) Best when grown in zones 2-24 and natie to the central United States. This is a commonly grown species of Catalpa in the Western United States and reached 40-60 feet tall and 20-40 feet wide. It has a rounded head and leaves that reach up to a foot long (they are odorless when crushed). |
Caring for and pruning catalpa Trees
Catalpa trees can take a wide range of soils and temperatures, but are sensitive to strong winds, which can damage the foliage. Shape plants when they are young, and shorten side branches as the tree grows. When branching has begun at the desired height, remove all lower branches to establish a clean canopy. Once established, simply head back or thin out branches that make the tree look unbalanced.
Propagation
Problems and Pests
Gallery
Videos
A video all about growing camellias successfully
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Propagating camellias
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Resources
The New Sunset Western Garden Book: The Ultimate Gardening Guide (2012) - Page 225, Catalpa
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