Western Catalpa

Western catalpa is a large shade tree with an open, irregular crown. It is grown for its clusters of white, fragrant flowers and enormous heart-shaped leaves.

In June, the long, showy panicles of bell-shaped flowers appear - white speckled with yellow and purple. The flowers develop into thin seedpods. Its bark is reddish-brown or grey and its leaves turn yellow in fall. 

Western catalpa works best at lower elevations in the Colorado Springs area. It provides dense shade and has particularly fragrant flowers. The leaves, however, may suffer from hailstorms and wind damage on exposed sites.

Western Catalpa

Western catalpa is a large shade tree with an open, irregular crown. It is grown for its clusters of white, fragrant flowers and enormous heart-shaped leaves.

In June, the long, showy panicles of bell-shaped flowers appear - white speckled with yellow and purple. The flowers develop into thin seedpods. Its bark is reddish-brown or grey and its leaves turn yellow in fall. 

Western catalpa works best at lower elevations in the Colorado Springs area. It provides dense shade and has particularly fragrant flowers. The leaves, however, may suffer from hailstorms and wind damage on exposed sites.

Plant details
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Botanic Name

Catalpa speciosa

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Pronunciation

kuh-TAL-puh spee-see-OH-suh

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Mature Height

up to 50 ft.

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Mature Spread

35 ft.

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Water usage
Water Usage

One Droplet: Water twice per month or less, once established.

Two Droplets: Water about once per week, once established.

Three Droplets: Water about twice per week, once established.

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Flower Color

white

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Bloom time

June

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Colorado Native

No

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Natural Habitat

southern Illinois to Arkansas

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Light Requirements

sun

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Cold Hardiness

USDA zones 4-8

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Elevation Limit

hardy to 6,500 ft.

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