Care of the tree Catalpa bignonioides or Southern catalpa |
|
The genus Catalpa, family Bignoniaceae, includes 11 species of trees native to America and East Asia. Some species are: Catalpa bignonioides, Catalpa speciosa, Catalpa bungei, Catalpa kaempferii. Common names: Southern catalpa, Cigartree, Indian-bean-tree, Indian bean tree. This species is native to the southeastern United States. They are trees with a rounded crown that reach 12 meters (39.37 feet) in height. The leaves are purple in young specimens and turn pale green. The white, tubular flowers are highly decorative and bloom in early summer. The fruit is pod-shaped. They are used isolated in the garden or in public streets and parks due to their rapid growth and their leafy crown. Catalpa bignonioides needs full sun exposure but sheltered from the wind; they tolerate cold but not frost. They can be grown in any well-drained soil, although they prefer soil rich in humus. Planting is done in autumn or spring. Water abundantly in summer and reduce watering the rest of the year. Fertilize in the fall with organic fertilizer. They do not need pruning. They can be attacked by powdery mildew (excessive humidity) and mealybugs (prolonged drought). They propagate by seeds sown in spring or by cuttings in late summer. |
Images of the tree Catalpa bignonioides or Southern catalpa |
 Catalpa bignonioides  Catalpa bignonioides  Catalpa bignonioides  Catalpa bignonioides  Catalpa bignonioides |