Catalpa bignonioides southern catalpa, Indian bean tree

Catalpas have been grown in our country for many years. The species may be found in every larger city as an important feature of a city park. It offers outstanding points of interest such as large leaves in summer and long cigar-shaped seed pods in winter, hence its name Indian Bean Tree.

Flowers are formed in upright panicles and appear beginning of summer. They are bell-shaped, with two lips, white with deep red veins and golden yellow spots. Flowers have a unique shape and pattern and come our freely every year. They are followed by cigar-like, to 40 cm long seed pods.

Leaves are upto 25 cm long, mid-green, soft and slightly hairy. Their aroma allegedly repels mosquitoes. This is the species of catalpa which in the wild grows about 15 m tall. However, in gardens with limited space for roots it seldom exceeds 10m height and 5m width. In rapid temperature swings and humid weather in early summer they may suffer from powdery mildew. When you see the first signs apply a suitable fungicide to prevent from spreading the disease. One application is usually enough for the rest of the year.

Catalpas are not too picky about pH or soil type. However, they will respond well to good, well-drained soil. Our catalpas performed exceptionally well even on clay and withstood temporary water-logging. They do not suffer from air-pollution and adverse conditions. Fully hardy to approx. -28°C (USDA zone 5).