Catalpa bignonioides
Indian bean tree
A spreading medium-sized deciduous tree, with pale green, broad-ovate leaves to 25cm in length. Flowers 3-4cm in width, white, marked with orange and purple, in conical panicles. Fruit a slender bean-like pod
Synonyms
Catalpa syringaefoliaCatalpa catalpa
Size
Ultimate height
Higher than 12 metresTime to ultimate height
20–50 yearsUltimate spread
Wider than 8 metresGrowing conditions
Moisture
Moist but well–drained, Well–drainedpH
Acid, Alkaline, NeutralColour & scent
| Stem | Flower | Foliage | Fruit | |
| Spring | Green | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer | Orange Purple White | Green | ||
| Autumn | Green | Brown | ||
| Winter |
Position
- Full sun
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or North–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered Hardiness
H6Botanical details
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Native to the UK
- No
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Habit
- Bushy
- Genus
Catalpa are deciduous trees of spreading habit, with handsome, large leaves and erect panicles of showy, bell-shaped flowers in late summer, followed by persistent, slender bean-like seed capsules
- Name status
Correct
- Plant range
- SE USA
How to grow
Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny position; will tolerate a heavy clay soil. Shelter from strong winds as these may shred the large leaves. Protect from late spring frosts when young
Propagation
Suggested planting locations and garden types
- Architectural
- Cottage and informal garden
- Low Maintenance
- Flower borders and beds
Pruning
Pests
Generally pest-free
Diseases
May be susceptible to verticillium wilt and rarely, honey fungus
Get involved
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