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Bignoniaceae
Indian Bean Tree
Catalpa bignonioides
Generous shade and summer spectacle.
- Family
- Bignoniaceae
- Genus
- Catalpa
- Native to
- southeastern United States
- Bloom season
- Early Summer
- Type
- deciduous tree
- Height
- 800–1500 cm
- Sunlight
- full sun
- Soil
- moist, fertile, well-drained
- Water
- moderate
- Hardiness
- 5–9
- Lifespan
- perennial; 40–60 years
Did you know
- The 'Indian' in the name refers to Native Americans, not India — the Cherokee used it medicinally.
- The showy flower panicles resemble horse chestnut blooms but have orchid-like markings to guide pollinators.
- Long, bean-like seed pods (up to 40 cm) hang on the tree through winter, giving it the 'bean tree' name.
- Catalpa worms (sphinx moth caterpillars) that feed on the leaves are prized as fishing bait in the South.
- The heart-shaped leaves can be enormous — up to 30 cm across — giving the tree a bold tropical look.
Color meanings
White
generous hospitality