Northern Catalpa

Catalpa speciosa

Tree18×13 mzone 4–9light shade

Profile

Family: Bignoniaceae
Habit: Tree
Height: 18 m
Spread: 13 m
Growth: fast
Lifespan: 60 years
First yield: after 8 years
Hardiness: zone 4–9
Shade tolerance: light shade
Soil: Sand, Silt, Loam, Clay
Soil moisture: dry – very wet
pH: 5.5 – 7.5
Synonyms: Bean tree, Cigartree

scentednectar source

Flowering & harvest

	J	F	M	A	M	J	J	A	S	O	N	D
Flowering
Fruit harvest

Times apply to the northern hemisphere in a temperate climate and shift with altitude and cultivar.

Uses

Edible1 of 10

Medicinal3 of 10

Other uses6 of 10

Growing

Catalpa speciosa prefers full sun to partial shade and moist, well-drained soils but tolerates a wide range including dry or wet soils. It grows best in fertile loams with pH between 5.5 and 7.5. Water regularly after planting and during dry spells. Propagate by seed or cuttings. Prune young trees to maintain a strong central leader and remove lower branches for easier maintenance.

⚠️ Hazards

Toxicity: slightly toxic

This is no substitute for expert identification. When in doubt, do not eat it.

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