northern catalpa - catalpa speciosa
Common Name: northern catalpa
Scientific Name: Family: Bignoniaceae Genus: Catalpa Species: speciosa Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8 Height: 40 to 70 ft Width: 20 to 50 ft Description: The northern catalpa can be seen on the streets of the Twin Cities in Minnesota, and can be identified at any time of year. Its large, heart-shaped leaves distinguish it from many other trees in the summer. In spring (May-June), they have extraordinary showy white flowers that cover the entire tree. In the fall/winter they have long slender seed pods hanging from the branches. It has a small native range in states southeast of Minnesota, but is commonly found here now. A good choice for harsh urban conditions, it tolerates drought, poor drainage, and road salt fairly well. It is somewhat of a weak wooded tree and should be planted with caution; the branches can break off during storms. If pruned and cared for properly, these trees make great landscape additions. Images: Rob Routledge, Sault College, Bugwood.org (bottom row) |