Botanical profile

Catalpa speciosa

Latin name
Catalpa speciosa
Common name
Northern Catalpa
Type
TREE
Family
Bignoniaceae

Catalpa speciosa is a large ornamental tree admired for its abundant, generous foliage and spectacular clusters of white flowers spotted with yellow and purple in late spring to early summer, which attract butterflies and pollinators while providing a remarkable floral presence in large gardens, parks, or landscaped areas. Its rounded to spreading silhouette offers generous shade, ideal for creating resting areas or visually structuring vast landscapes. Very hardy and adaptable to a variety of well-drained soils, this tree prefers sunny to partial shade exposure and is distinguished by its ease of maintenance despite its imposing stature.

Care guide

Growing conditions

Light, soil, water and hardiness

Hardiness zone
Zones 3–8
Exposure
Sun to partial shade
Watering
Moderate to regular
Fertilization
Balanced spring salad
Soil type
Well drained, fertile
Minimum temperature
-35°C
Plant appearance

Blooming, foliage and shape

Blooming period
June
Flower color
White stained with yellow and violets
Fruiting
Elongated pods
Foliage color
Medium green
Foliage type
Obsolete
Shape
Rounded / Spread
Garden structure

Size and growth

Height
40-60 ft (12-18 m)
Width
12 m (39 ft)
Growth rate
Fast
Pet friendly
Safe for pets

Pets

Butterflies
Plants that attract butterflies

Butterflies

The availability of our plants varies depending on arrivals, seasons, nursery production and supplier availability. Some varieties may be offered for a limited time only, depending on their natural cycle or current stock. These plant profiles are designed to guide and inspire you when choosing plants for the garden, landscaping projects, containers or long-lasting outdoor arrangements.