Catalpa Speciosa

Description

Catalpa Speciosa, commonly known as the Northern Catalpa or Western Catalpa, is a deciduous ornamental tree that belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. It is native to North America and is known for its large, heart-shaped leaves, and white flowers that bloom in late spring to early summer. Its long, slender fruits that resemble bean pods are also a notable feature of this tree.

Taxonomic Information

Domain	Eukaryota
Kingdom	Plantae
Phylum	Magnoliophyta
Class	Magnoliopsida
Order	Lamiales
Family	Bignoniaceae
Genus	Catalpa
Species	Speciosa

Appearance

Catalpa Speciosa can grow up to 70 feet tall and 50 feet wide. Its leaves are large, heart-shaped, and can reach up to 12 inches in length. The leaves are light green in color and have a velvety texture. The flowers of Catalpa Speciosa are trumpet-shaped, white, and have purple and yellow markings in the throat. The flowers grow in clusters and can be up to 2 inches long. The fruit of the tree is a long, slender, bean-like pod that can reach up to 18 inches in length.

Care Guide

Catalpa Speciosa is a hardy tree that requires minimal care. It grows best in well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. The tree requires full sun exposure and should be watered deeply once a week during the growing season. Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring. The tree is hardy in zones 4-8.

Common Pests & Diseases

Catalpa Speciosa is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot, powdery mildew, and verticillium wilt. Leaf spot can be treated with copper fungicides, while powdery mildew can be treated with a fungicide containing potassium bicarbonate. Verticillium wilt is a fungal disease that can be difficult to treat and may require the removal of infected branches or the entire tree.

Habitat

Catalpa Speciosa is native to North America and can be found in the central and eastern United States. It grows best in moist, well-draining soil and can be found in a variety of habitats, including forests, riverbanks, and open fields.

Question and Answer

Q: Is Catalpa Speciosa a good shade tree?

A: Yes, Catalpa Speciosa is a great shade tree due to its large size and wide canopy.

Q: Can Catalpa Speciosa grow in alkaline soil?

A: While Catalpa Speciosa prefers slightly acidic soil, it can tolerate alkaline soil conditions.

Q: How often should I fertilize my Catalpa Speciosa?

A: Fertilization is not necessary, but a balanced fertilizer can be applied in early spring if desired.

Q: Can Catalpa Speciosa be grown in a container?

A: Catalpa Speciosa is not suitable for container gardening due to its large size and deep root system.

Related Plants

• Catalpa Bignonioides
• Catalpa Longissima
• Catalpa Fargesii
• Catalpa Ovata

References

• “Catalpa Speciosa.” Missouri Botanical Garden. https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c800
• “Northern Catalpa.” Arbor Day Foundation. https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/TreeDetail.cfm?ItemID=828
• “Catalpa Speciosa.” The Spruce. https://www.thespruce.com/catalpa-speciosa-trees-3269657