Also known as Bean Tree · Bois Chavanon · Catawba
Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is a fast-growing, medium to large deciduous tree known for its large heart-shaped leaves and showy white flower clusters.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun
100% intensity
Prefers full sun for best growth and flowering. Can tolerate partial shade but may become leggy.
Moderate
50% intensity
Keep soil consistently moist, especially during establishment and dry spells. Avoid waterlogging.
Adaptable, prefers moist, well-drained soils
50% intensity
Hardy
25% intensity
Tolerates a broad range of temperatures, hardy in USDA zones 4-8.
Moderate
50% intensity
Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release formula. Avoid over-fertilization.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
None
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water regularly, especially during establishment and dry periods. Aim for consistently moist soil but avoid waterlogging. Deep watering is more beneficial than frequent shallow watering to encourage deep root growth.
Reduce watering in winter when the plant is dormant.
Prune in late winter or early spring while dormant to remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches. Pruning can also be done after flowering to shape the tree and improve air circulation.
Remove suckers from the base to maintain a single trunk.
Catalpa speciosa can be propagated by seeds, which require stratification (cold treatment) for germination. Semi-hardwood cuttings taken in summer and treated with rooting hormone can also be successful.
Grafting is another method for specific cultivars.
Repotting is generally not applicable to mature Catalpa speciosa trees as they are large, long-lived specimens typically planted directly in the ground. Young saplings purchased from nurseries may require repotting into larger containers as they grow, usually every 1-2 years.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Lamiales |
| Family | Bignoniaceae |
| Genus | Catalpa |
| Species | Catalpa speciosa |
Similar in genus Catalpa
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
