Catalpa

Southern Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides) 

Common Names: Southern Catalpa, Indian Bean Tree, Catawba Tree (Catawba is the  preferred pronunciation in the  south)
Native to: Southeastern United States
Lighting Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
Height: 30–50 feet
Width: 20–40 feet
Winter Look: Deciduous; bare branches in winter with a rugged, textured structure
Seasonal Interest: Large, heart-shaped green leaves in spring and summer; showy, fragrant white flowers with purple and yellow markings bloom in late spring or early summer; long, slender seed pods persist into winter, adding visual interest
Drought Tolerance: Moderate; tolerates dry conditions once established
Soil Requirements: Prefers moist, well-drained soils but adapts to poor or compacted soils, including sandy or clay soils
pH Range: 5.5–7.5
Hardiness Zones: 5–9
Deer Resistance: Low; deer may browse on young leaves and shoots
Attracts: Pollinators like bees and hummingbirds (flowers); birds (seeds)
Potential Issues: Susceptible to catalpa worms (larvae of the catalpa sphinx moth), which can defoliate the tree but rarely cause serious harm; potential for verticillium wilt and powdery mildew; significant litter from leaves, flowers, and seed pods
Notes: Southern Catalpa is a fast-growing, ornamental tree well-suited for large yards or naturalized areas. Its striking flowers and unique seed pods provide seasonal interest, while its adaptability makes it a hardy choice. Anglers often value the catalpa worms it attracts as bait.

"Catalpa" comes from the Cherokee language and means "bean tree."