Southern Catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides)

Southern Catalpa – Showy Flowers and Bean-Like Pods

Catalpa bignonioides, known as Southern Catalpa, Catawba, Indian Bean Tree, or Fish-Bait Tree, is a medium-sized deciduous tree native to the southeastern U.S. It is prized for its large, heart-shaped leaves and spectacular late-spring flowers: white with purple and yellow markings, in upright panicles. The long, slender, bean-like seed pods persist through winter, giving rise to the name "Indian Bean Tree." It tolerates a wide range of soils, wet or dry, and is often planted as a shade or specimen tree.

Taxonomic Details