Southern Catalpa Catalpa bignonioides
ABOUT
The plant commonly known as the Southern Catalpa has a unique and striking appearance, characterized by its large heart-shaped leaves that can create a dense canopy of foliage. The leaves are typically a rich green and give the plant a lush, verdant look. In the flowering season, which usually takes place in late spring to early summer, the Southern Catalpa produces tall clusters of showy white flowers. Each bloom is trumpet-shaped and is marked with yellow and purple spots, giving it a distinctive and attractive look. The flowers, when in bloom, are not only beautiful to look at but also attract various pollinators such as bees and hummingbirds. Once the flowering period is over, the plant produces long, slender pods that resemble cigars, which is why it is sometimes referred to as the Cigar Tree. These seed pods hang from the branches and can persist through much of the winter, adding to the plant's visual interest even after the leaves have fallen. The bark of the Southern Catalpa is relatively thick with a light brown to grayish color, and over time, it develops a furrowed texture that adds to the tree's ornamental value. It presents a rugged and sturdy look that contrasts well with the delicate nature of its blooms. Overall, the Southern Catalpa is a plant with a compelling presence, noted for its large leaves, dramatic flowers, and distinctive seed pods, making it a popular choice for landscaping and as a feature in gardens.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Bignoniaceae.
Synonyms
Southern Catalpa, Catawba, Indian Bean Tree, Fish-Bait Tree, Cigar Tree, Bean Tree, Indian Cigar Tree, Shawnee Wood, Hardy Catalpa.
Common names
Bignonia catalpa L., Catalpa syringifolia Sims, Macrocatalpa bignonioides (Walter) Sudw.
ToxicityTo humans
The Southern Catalpa is generally considered to have a low toxicity for humans. Ingesting parts of the plant, such as leaves or seeds, can potentially cause mild stomach upset, but severe cases of poisoning are rare. It is not commonly regarded as hazardous, but, as with any plant, it is advisable to avoid ingestion and to exercise caution around children who may be tempted to eat plant parts.
To pets
The Southern Catalpa is known to have a low level of toxicity to pets as well. If pets, such as dogs or cats, ingest parts of the plant, they may experience gastrointestinal upset, which could include symptoms such as vomiting or diarrhea. It's not typically considered highly toxic to domestic animals, but it is always a good practice to monitor your pets and keep them from eating non-food plants to avoid any potential health issues.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
30-50 feet (9-15 meters)
Spread
20-40 feet (6-12 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
5-9
Native area
Southeastern United States
Benefits
General Benefits- Shade Provider: The large, broad leaves of the Southern Catalpa create dense shade, making it a popular choice for parks and large gardens.
- Ornamental Appeal: With its showy, trumpet-shaped flowers and distinct, long seed pods, Southern Catalpa is valued for its aesthetic contribution to landscapes.
- Wildlife Habitat: The tree offers habitat and food for various wildlife, including birds and bees that are attracted to its flowers.
- Durable Wood: Southern Catalpa wood is resistant to rot and decay, making it suitable for outdoor uses such as fence posts and rail ties.
- Urban Tolerant: It is adaptable to a variety of soil conditions and can withstand urban pollution, making it a resilient choice for city planting.
- Low Maintenance: Once established, Southern Catalpa requires minimal care, which can be appealing for public spaces and low-maintenance gardens.
- Canopy Formation: Mature trees have a broad, spreading canopy that can provide a strong visual structure within large landscape designs.
Medical Properties- Antioxidant activity: Extracts from Catalpa bignonioides have shown potential for antioxidant properties.
- Anti-inflammatory potential: The plant may contain compounds with anti-inflammatory effects.
- Analgesic effects: There is some indication that Catalpa bignonioides could have pain-relieving properties.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Catalpa wood is used in cabinet making due to its workability and lightweight nature, alongside its resistance to rot.
- The broad leaves of Catalpa can be used as natural parasols or makeshift fans during hot weather.
- Catalpa trees provide valuable shade which can be utilized in landscape design, particularly in parks and large gardens.
- It is sometimes planted as a honey plant because its flowers are rich in nectar, bringing benefit to both bees and beekeepers.
- The wood of Catalpa is also used for making small boats or canoes as it doesn't deteriorate quickly when wet.
- In some regions, the large leaves are used as a green wrap for grilling food, adding a unique flavor to the dish.
- Its seed pods have been used in crafts and as educational tools to teach about seed dispersal and plant growth.
- The tree's dense foliage can provide a privacy screen or windbreak in landscaping projects.
- Catalpa is also used in agroforestry systems, contributing to soil improvement and erosion control.
- Seasonally, the fallen leaves of Catalpa can be gathered and used as a mulch to regulate soil temperature and moisture.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Catalpa is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Catalpa is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Protection: Catalpa bignonioides, commonly known as the Southern Catalpa, has broad leaves that provide shade and shelter, representing protection and guardianship.
- Endurance: With its ability to withstand tough environments and still produce beautiful flowers, the Southern Catalpa symbolizes strength and the ability to persist.
- Fertility and Abundance: The tree is known for its large seed pods and lush foliage, which can represent fertility and abundance in one's life.
- Uniqueness: Southern Catalpa's distinct appearance, with its large leaves and showy flowers, suggests uniqueness and the celebration of individuality.
WaterThe Southern Catalpa should be watered deeply but infrequently to mimic natural rainfall and to promote deep root growth. During its growing season in the spring and summer, water the tree once a week with about 1.5 gallons of water if there hasn't been significant rainfall. Reduce watering to once every two to three weeks during the fall before the leaves drop. In the winter, Southern Catalpa requires less water due to dormancy and you can water it once a month with 1.5 gallons, depending on the local weather conditions. Ensure that the soil drains well to prevent waterlogging which can lead to root rot.
LightThe Southern Catalpa prefers full sun which means at least six hours of direct sunlight each day. It will thrive in a spot that receives unfiltered, continuous sunlight throughout the day, so it's best planted in an open space away from larger trees or buildings that could cast shade.
TemperatureThe Southern Catalpa is tolerant of a wide range of temperatures and can survive in conditions as low as -20 degrees Fahrenheit and as high as 100 degrees Fahrenheit. However, it thrives best in temperatures between 60 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. Ensure it is planted in an area that is not prone to sudden temperature drops to avoid frost damage.
PruningPrune the Southern Catalpa during its dormancy in late winter to early spring before new growth starts. Pruning is necessary to shape the tree, remove any dead or diseased branches, and to increase air circulation. It's also the time to remove any branches that are crossing or rubbing against each other to prevent wounds which can lead to disease entry.
CleaningAs needed
SoilThe Southern Catalpa thrives in well-draining, fertile soil with a slightly acidic to neutral pH of 5.5 to 7.0. A mix of loamy soil, compost, and a small amount of sand or perlite is ideal to facilitate drainage and provide nutrients.
RepottingSouthern Catalpa trees, being large and typically grown outdoors, do not require frequent repotting; they may only need to be transplanted if outgrowing their location.
Humidity & MistingSouthern Catalpa trees are adaptable to a range of humidity conditions and do not have specific humidity requirements, making them versatile in different outdoor climates.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Growing Southern Catalpa indoor is not recommended due to its large size.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade with room for growth.
Hardiness zone
5-9 USDA.
Life cycleThe Southern Catalpa begins its life cycle when its seeds, typically contained within long, thin pods, are dispersed by wind or animals in late fall or winter. Upon germination in spring, the seedlings establish a root system and begin to grow rapidly, often benefiting from full sun and moist but well-drained soil conditions. The juvenile phase sees the catalpa developing into a sapling with large, heart-shaped leaves and establishing a sturdy trunk. As the tree matures into the adult phase, it blossoms in late spring to early summer, producing large clusters of white flowers with yellow and purple markings, which attract various pollinators. After pollination, the flowers give way to the distinctive seed pods which persist through winter. Finally, as the tree reaches the senescence stage, growth slows and it becomes more susceptible to environmental stress and disease, eventually leading to its death.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-early summer
The Southern Catalpa, also known as Catalpa bignonioides, is often propagated through seed planting, but the most popular method is through hardwood cuttings. This is typically done in late winter when the tree is dormant. Cuttings of about 6 to 8 inches (15 to 20 centimeters) are taken from the matured, current year's growth. The bottom cut is made just below a node, and the top cut is made just above a node. The cuttings are then dipped in rooting hormone to encourage root growth and planted in a mixture of sand and peat. They are kept moist until roots develop, after which they can be transplanted to their permanent location.
