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Description
Catalpa Ovata, also known as Chinese Catalpa or Yellow Catalpa, is a deciduous tree that is native to China. It belongs to the Bignoniaceae family and can grow up to 50 feet tall and 30 feet wide. The tree produces fragrant white flowers in the summer and large bean-like seed pods in the fall. The leaves are large and heart-shaped, with a glossy dark green color.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Catalpa |
| Species | Catalpa Ovata |
Appearance
Catalpa Ovata has a unique appearance, with its large heart-shaped leaves and fragrant white flowers. The leaves can grow up to 10 inches long and 8 inches wide. They have a glossy dark green color on the top and a paler green color on the underside. The flowers grow in clusters and can be up to 2 inches long. They have a trumpet-like shape and a sweet fragrance. The tree produces large bean-like seed pods that can grow up to 8 inches long.
Care Guide
Catalpa Ovata requires moderate care and maintenance. Here are some tips for taking care of this tree:- Water: The tree needs regular watering during the growing season. Water deeply once a week, and make sure the soil is well-draining.- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree in the early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Repeat the process every 4-6 weeks during the growing season.- Soil: The tree prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does best in slightly acidic soil.- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but it may not flower as well.- Hardiness Zones: Catalpa Ovata is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Catalpa Ovata is susceptible to a few common pests and diseases:- Catalpa Sphinx Moth: This moth lays its eggs on the leaves of the tree. The larvae can defoliate the tree if left unchecked.- Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause the leaves to wilt and the tree to decline. It can be fatal if not treated promptly.- Powdery Mildew: This fungal disease can cause a white powdery coating on the leaves of the tree. It can be treated with fungicides.
Habitat
Catalpa Ovata is native to China, but it has been introduced to other parts of the world, including North America. It grows in a variety of habitats, including forests, fields, and along riverbanks.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Catalpa Ovata a fast-growing tree?
A: Yes, Catalpa Ovata is a fast-growing tree that can grow up to 3 feet per year.
Q: Does Catalpa Ovata have any medicinal uses?
A: Yes, various parts of the tree have been used in traditional Chinese medicine to treat a variety of ailments, including diarrhea and fever.
Q: How often should Catalpa Ovata be pruned?
A: Catalpa Ovata should be pruned in the late winter or early spring, before new growth appears. It can be pruned every 2-3 years to maintain its shape and size.
Q: Can Catalpa Ovata be grown in a container?
A: Yes, Catalpa Ovata can be grown in a container, but it will require regular watering and fertilization.
Related Plants
– Catalpa Bignonioides- Catalpa Speciosa- Catalpa Fargesii- Catalpa Longissima
References
– “Catalpa ovata” Missouri Botanical Garden. – “Catalpa ovata” Royal Horticultural Society. – “Chinese Catalpa” University of Florida IFAS Extension. – “Catalpa ovata” Plant Finder.
