LARGE CANOPY TREE; NATIVE; SHOWSTOPPING SPRING FLOWERS; FRAGRANT; POLLINATOR FAVORITE; WINTER INTEREST

Species: Catalpa speciosa

Plant Size, Type & Delivery Height: 30 Gallon; Greater than 6 Feet Tall; Balled & Burlap or Container Grown

Mature Height: 40-60

Mature Spread: 30-40

Growth Rate: Fast 24”+/year

Sunlight: Full Sun to Part Shade

Drought & Heat Tolerant: Usually

Description: Thousands of white foxglove-like flowers, streaked inside with purple and yellow, appear in the Spring like mini chandeliers dancing off the Northern Catalpa. Their sweet honeysuckle-like fragrance adds to the seduction of Catalpa then yields to huge heart-shaped leaves in the Summer. Unlike many trees, the Northern Catalpa doesn’t have show stopping Fall foliage. But throughout the winter long brown bean-like fringed seed pods dangle from the branches, giving it a lovely form during the cold months. The pods may be responsible for the nickname “Cigar Tree.” 

At maturity, the Catalpa’s pleasing rounded canopy and adaptability make it a good choice to plant where more demanding trees cannot take hold. Because its wood is extremely durable and rot resistant, it has been used to make fence posts and railroad ties throughout the South.

Growing Considerations:  Northern Catalpa grows very fast and it’s a tree that you should plant if you want some fast growing shade. It is an adaptable tree that survives well in a variety of soils, making it a good choice for urban environments. It can be a bit messy throughout the Summer and Fall when leaves drop. Its strong but brittle wood can result in branch losses during heavy storms. Because of this, we don’t recommend planting the Northern Catalpa near structures.

Mono-culture Risk: None

Invasive Risk: Invasive in Some Parts of Country (Native to North America)