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)
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