Northern Catalpa

Attributes:
An excellent tree where fast growth is desired. Striking flowers that appear in early summer. Catalpas can withstand city conditions while adding interest to landscapes. Should not be planted where fruit and flowers can drop on sidewalks as they are slippery after they fall for a short period of time.

Wildlife Value:
The flowers of the catalpa are visited by hummingbirds. It is the sole host of the catalpa sphinx moth.

History/Lore/Use:
The Catalpa tree is found in forests from southern Illinois and Indiana to western Tennessee and Arkansas. First cultivated in 1754, the wood was used for fence posts and railroad ties because of its resistance to rot coupled with the fast growth rate of the tree. In the south, Catalpa trees are traditional sources of fish bait. Catalpa worms, the larvae of Catalpa Sphinx Moths, are eagerly sought in early summer by anglers. Common names for catalpa are many and colorful-cigar tree, Indian bean tree, catawba, caterpillar tree, hardy catalpa, western catalpa.

Moisture:
A wide range of moisture content can be tolerated including some flooding and extremely hot, dry conditions.

Leaves:
The leaves are simple, opposite, somewhat heart or spearhead shaped, 6"-12" long, 3"-8" wide, medium green in summer, yellow or brown in fall. Their shape and giant size long make them a favorite with children.

Flower Color:
White, trumpet shaped, 2" flowers that flare widely from the base, decorated with yellow lines or patches and occasional purple spots. Slightly fragrant. Catalpa begins to flower after 7 years.

Bloom Time:
May - June..

Fruit Description:
The fruits are elongated cigar-shaped or bean-like pods, 8"-12" long, 1/4"-1/2" wide. They are green in color turning brownish filled with numerous, 1" long seeds fringed at the ends. A favorite of children's play and imagination. Northern catalpa begins to flower after 7 years, but will take until 10 years of age to begin to a produce quality seed crop.