How to Grow Catalpa

Catalpa (commonly known as the Indian Bean Tree) are deciduous trees with large, colour changing leaves that transform from red to lime green during summer to form a gentle domed canopy. These are decorated with snowy white trumpet-shaped blooms, whereby long green bean pods usually follow. Catalpa are best suited to an architectural garden where you should expect to see them grow to an eventual height of 10m (30’) and a spread of 8m (26’).

Catalpa are best planted in moist, well-drained soil of loam, chalk and sand within an acidic, alkaline and neutral PH balance. They will thrive in both full sun and partly shaded areas. Dig a hole that is twice as deep and wide as the root ball and gently insert your plant into position, watering your plant thoroughly.

Protect Catalpa from strong winds as this will shred the bare leaves; keep this in mind when you are planting, and ensure it is kept within a sheltered area. As a young plant is it important to protect Catalpa from frosty conditions until they are better established. prune Catalpa during the spring to retain a healthy and pleasing appearance. Pruning will also control the branches from imposing on other trees or barriers. Water well as a young plant and during periods of drought.

It is possible to propagate Catalpa by seed during autumn or by softwood cuttings in the summer.