Northern Catalpa

The Northern Catalpa tree, Catalpa speciosa, is now naturalized in urban and rural areas and is primarily used today as a large ornamental shade tree. Farmers introduced Northern Catalpa to Ohio in order to produce large amounts of relatively lightweight timber for fenceposts, since the wood is very resistant to rotting.This deciduous tree is also known as Hardy Catalpa, Western Catalpa, Cigar Tree, and Catawba Tree. It may reach heights of 70 feet tall and 40 feet wide. As a member of the Bignonia Family, it is related to Trumpet Vine, Royal Paulownia, and other species of Catalpa, all of which are known for their showy flowers. Northern Catalpa trees are a very fast growing trees with large heart shaped leaves. The white flowers are on 4 8 inch long panicles in late June. Fruit is a long pod. Very tolerant of tough conditions.