Northern Catalpa
Catalpa speciosa
Bignoniaceae
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0 (2025-05-28)
Description
Northern Catalpa is a fast-growing tree with huge heart-shaped leaves and showy white flowers. Native to the midwest but widely planted in Buffalo, it's known for its tropical appearance and long bean-like seed pods that persist through winter.
Characteristics
Leaf Type
simple
Leaf Shape
large heart-shaped, 6-12 inches long
Height
50-70 feet
Bark
gray-brown with irregular ridges and furrows
Fruit
long bean-like pods 12-20 inches
Flowers
white with purple spots
Identification Tips
- • Huge heart-shaped leaves (largest of any native tree)
- • Showy white flowers with purple markings
- • Long bean-like pods persist through winter
- • Coarse branching pattern
- • Leaves have no scent when crushed
Seasonal Changes
Spring
Large leaves emerge late
Summer
Showy white flowers in June, tropical appearance
Fall
Yellow-green fall color, drops leaves early
Winter
Long bean pods hang from branches
Habitat & Growing Conditions
Hardiness Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8
Soil Preference
moist, well-drained, adaptable
Sun Requirements
full sun
Image Gallery
Leaves
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0
Winter
Photo by Placeholder via System Generated • CC0