catalpa

Garden uses

Notes

Catalpa (Catalpa bungei) is a tree for shade gardens. It is hardy to USDA zone 5, or down to -20°F (-29°C). This plant likes full or part sun and average to wet soil. Deer tend to pass it by. It blooms in late spring and early summer with rosy-pink flowers that have purple brown spots. Give it room to grow into a large tree.

Pairs well with American sycamore, Autumn fern, Japanese forest grass, and Munstead lavender.

Native range

Western China.