Catalpa speciosa
Western Catalpa
Description
This large, deciduous tree has a round head with large, heart-shaped leaves. In the late spring and early summer months, large clusters of white, trumpet-shaped flowers with purple and yellow interior spotting are seen above the leaves. Bees love the flowers. After flowering season, long, green, slender seedpods appear. These seedpods turn to dark brown in the fall and split open, releasing seeds. Bark has ridges and gray brown in color. It does best in full sun with moist, fertile soil. Mature trees tolerate wet or dry conditions and hot environments. Considered a short lived tree with a 50 year life span. Branches are brittle so it's best to prune to remove weaker branches. Reaches 50 tall and 25-30' wide.