NCCSP

Type of tree:

The Northern Catalpa falls into the following type(s): Flowering Trees, Ornamental Trees, Shade Trees

Mature Height:

The Northern Catalpa grows to be 40' - 60' feet in height.

Mature Spread:

The Northern Catalpa has a spread of about 20' - 40' at full maturity.

Growth Rate:

This tree grows at a medium to fast growth rate.

Sun:

This catalpa does well in full sun, partial shade.

Soil:

The Northern Catalpa grows in acidic, alkaline, drought tolerant, loamy, moist, sandy, well drained, wide range soils.

Moisture:

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

Shape:

This catalpa has oval shape.

Leaves:

Leaves of the Catalpa are distinctive. Their heart shape and giant size of up to 12 inches long make them a favorite with children.

Flower Color:

White flowers with purple markings. Catalpa begins to flower after 7 years.

Bloom Time:

May - June..

Fruit Description:

The fruit is elongated cigar-shaped fruit 12 inches long. 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.

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.

Description:

Large, showy white flowers grace the Catalpa in late spring. Its crown is rounded and upright with large, heart-shaped, medium green leaves. Withstands wet, dry, alkaline soils and hot, dry environments. Sun or partial shade. Grows to 40'-60' with a 30' spread. (Zones 4-8)

Wildlife Value:

The flowers of the Catalpa are visited by hummingbirds.

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.