Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa)

Category: Trees | Windbreak | Drought Tolerant | Dry Site | Mesic Site | Moist Site | Wetland Site | Urban Site | GreatPlants for the Great Plains

The Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is a fast-growing native shade tree known for its bold foliage, showy summer flowers, and exceptional adaptability. Early in life, the tree has few branches, but as it matures, its ascending limbs become gnarled and architecturally twisted, giving it strong character and presence in the landscape.

In June, Northern Catalpa produces large, 2-inch-long, tube-shaped white flowers arranged in 4–8 inch upright clusters (panicles). These blooms are highly attractive to pollinators and add dramatic mid-summer interest when many trees are finished flowering. After bloom, the tree develops long, slender seed pods that persist into winter, adding seasonal texture.

Highly tolerant of challenging conditions, Northern Catalpa performs well in xeriscapes, urban sites, and areas with variable moisture, including dry soils, compacted ground, and periodically wet locations. A ReTree Nebraska–recommended species, it’s a reliable choice for landscapes that need toughness without sacrificing ornamental value.

NATIVE RANGE

Map courtesy of the USDA-NRCS Plant Database.