Catalpa bignonioides Indian bean tree, Southern Catalpa

Bignoniaceae

Catalpa bignonioides Indian bean tree, Southern Catalpa

Average-sized tree with a wide, spreading, round-headed crown, native to the south eastern part of the United States. The crown is capricious and the low branching gives a rather short trunk. It is a rapid grower attaining a width of up to circa 10 m. The grey brown, shallow-fissured bark peels in plates. The hard wood of the twigs breaks easily. The acuminate and entire, heart-shaped leaf emerges late in spring and is shed relatively early. The leaves are opposite or whorled in threes. When bruised a distinctive smell emerges. In autumn they turn yellow. The white, tubular flowers appear in erect conical clusters. The capsules persist during winter. Shallow rooting with fleshy roots. Catalpa bignonioides is a handsome tree that can eventually grow to be a large tree requiring a great deal of space.
Our trees can only be planted when they don't have any leaves. Due to the this we will start delivering again from November 2025.
Availability
Specifications
Download PDF
Height
10 - 15 m, fast growing
Width
12-15m
Crown
round headed, half-open crown, capricious growing
Bark and branches
grey, shallow grooves
Leaf
heart-shaped, fresh green, 15 - 30 cm long, 10 - 25 cm wide
Flowers
white, erect, to 25 cm long panicles, (May) June/July
Fruits
to 35 cm long, thin capsules
Spines/thorns
None
Toxicity
usually not toxic to people, (large) pets and livestock
Soil type
few requirements, not in wet soils
Soil moisture
withstand short flood
Paving
tolerates paving
Winter hardiness zone
6a (-23,3 to -20,6 °C)
Wind resistance
moderate to poor
Other resistances
resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6)
Fauna tree
valuable for bees (honey plant), valuable for butterflies
Shape
clearstem tree, multi-stem treem
Origin
south eastern North America
Clear stem tree Multi-stem tree clay soil loamy soil sandy soil tolerates paving resistant to frost (WH 1 - 6) withstand short flood 1st size , taller than 12 metres half-open crown green May late sprout fast growing Conspicuous bloom all species valuable for bees (honey plant) valuable for butterflies non-toxic (usually) Capricious growing Ornamental fruit playground tree
Possibly of interest
Frequently asked questions
Catalpa bignonioides

Catalpa bignonioides can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 m, fast growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

Catalpa bignonioides is fast growing and can eventually reach a height of 10 - 15 m, fast growing, depending on the site and climate conditions.

The right time to plant Catalpa bignonioides is during the dormancy period. In Western Europe, Catalpa bignonioides with root balls can generally be planted from mid-November to late April, although this depends strongly on the climatic conditions and the species of tree.

Catalpa bignonioides blooms in may.
General

Yes, we deliver to the UK. Delivery costs depend on the region and the total order value. Below, you’ll find all the details.

Delivery charges for private customers are calculated based on your region and are visible during the checkout process. We also offer discounts based on the total value of your order:

  • Orders over £1,000: Receive a 50% discount on delivery costs.
  • Orders over £2,000: Delivery is completely free.

Yes, for trees with a size of 50-60 cm girth or larger, additional delivery charges apply due to the need for specialised transport. These costs will be calculated separately and shared with you after your order is placed. We will contact you to discuss the transport options and costs.

Once you add items to your basket and proceed to the checkout, the system will calculate the delivery charges for your region. If your order qualifies for any discounts, they will automatically be applied.

For any questions or specific delivery requests, feel free to contact our customer service team. We’re happy to help arrange the best delivery solution for your order.