Catalpa Bignonioides

Description

Catalpa Bignonioides, commonly known as Southern Catalpa or Indian Bean Tree, is a deciduous tree that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to the southeastern United States and can grow up to 60 feet tall with a spread of 30-40 feet. The tree features a round crown, large heart-shaped leaves, and showy white flowers with purple and yellow markings that bloom in late spring to early summer. The flowers are followed by long, bean-like seed pods that can reach up to 20 inches in length. The tree also has a distinctive, musky odor that attracts pollinators.

Taxonomic Information

Appearance

The Southern Catalpa has a unique appearance with large, heart-shaped leaves that can grow up to 12 inches long and 8 inches wide. The leaves are dark green in color and have a slightly glossy texture. The tree also features large, showy flowers that are white with purple and yellow markings. The flowers can reach up to 2 inches in length and are shaped like trumpets. The flowers bloom in late spring to early summer and are followed by long, bean-like seed pods that can reach up to 20 inches in length. The bark of the tree is smooth and gray when young, but becomes rough and furrowed as the tree ages.

Care Guide

Southern Catalpa trees are relatively easy to care for and can adapt to a variety of growing conditions. Here are some tips for caring for your Catalpa Bignonioides:Water: The tree prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought. Water deeply once a week during dry periods.Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Do not over-fertilize, as this can damage the tree.Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic. It can also grow in clay soil.Sunlight: The Southern Catalpa prefers full sun but can tolerate some shade.Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.

Common Pests & Diseases

The Southern Catalpa tree is relatively pest and disease resistant. However, it can be susceptible to the following:Catalpa Sphinx Moth: The caterpillars of this moth can defoliate the tree. Handpicking the caterpillars or using a biological control such as Bacillus thuringiensis can help control the infestation.Canker: Canker is a fungal disease that can cause sunken areas on the bark and lead to branch dieback. Pruning infected branches and improving air circulation can help control the disease.

Habitat

The Southern Catalpa is native to the southeastern United States and can be found in a variety of habitats, including floodplains, riverbanks, and upland forests. The tree is often used for landscaping and can be found in parks, gardens, and along streets.

Question and Answer

Q: Can Catalpa Bignonioides grow in containers?
A: While it is possible to grow the tree in a container, it is not recommended. The tree can grow up to 60 feet tall and requires a lot of space for its roots.Q: Do Catalpa Bignonioides trees attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s flowers attract a variety of pollinators, including bees and butterflies. The tree’s seed pods are also a food source for wildlife such as squirrels and birds.Q: Is the Southern Catalpa tree fast-growing?
A: Yes, the tree is considered fast-growing and can grow up to 2-3 feet per year.Q: When is the best time to prune a Catalpa Bignonioides tree?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before new growth appears.

Related Plants

Here are some related plants to Catalpa Bignonioides:

• Catalpa Speciosa
• Catalpa ovata
• Catalpa Fargesii
• Catalpa duclouxii

References

• “Catalpa bignonioides.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?taxonid=277240.
• “Southern Catalpa.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/southern-catalpa.
• “Catalpa Bignonioides.” Plant Care Today, www.plantcaretoday.com/catalpa-bignonioides.