History: Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is native to the midwestern US where it was cultivated starting in the 1750s due to its resistance to rotting. This made it useful as fence posts and, rather unsuccessfully, as railroad ties. This tree has since expanded far beyond its original range as a commonly planted ornamental tree.
Why We Grow It: Catalpas make lovely ornamental trees, featuring large, heart-shaped leaves and twisting trunks. To further the visual appeal, they bloom annually with large, white flowers which turn into dangling bean pods.
Canadian Hardiness Zone: 4
Soil Preference: Tolerant of most soils and moisture levels
Growth Habits and Disease Resistance: Moderate to fast growth rate, reach about 40-60ft at maturity. Mildew and Leaf Spot are not major issues but Catalpas can get Verticillium Rot.
Sun/Shade: Partial to full sun (at least 4 hours of full sun daily)
Pollination: Self-pollinating
Flowering Time: May-June, takes seven years to flower
Ripens: Bean pods (inedible) present from mid-summer to mid-winter
Recommended Use: Ornamental
Height not including roots:
- B Grade Bareroot Seedling: 15-20cm
- Bareroot Seedling: 25-40cm