Catalpa 2"

Northern Catalpa
Catalpa speciosa

• Height: Typically 40–60 feet tall in Michigan’s climate
• Spread: About 20–35 feet wide
• Spacing: Plant 20–35 feet apart for a grand canopy
• Growth Rate: Moderate to fast
• Native
• Deciduous
• Shade or Ornamental Tree

Description

Northern Catalpa exhibits large, heart-shaped leaves and a profusion of gorgeous white, orchid-like blooms in late spring to early summer. The fragrant blossoms feature splashes of yellow and purple markings, lending a fresh elegance to the landscape. As autumn arrives, the foliage often shifts to a gentle yellow, adding a final note of seasonal interest. Long, slender pods may develop afterward, serving as a distinctive ornamental element without being suitable for consumption.

General Care

• Sunlight: Requires full sun to partial shade, with at least 4–6 hours of direct light for the finest performance.
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil but adapts to various soil types; adding organic matter can improve structure in heavier conditions.
• Watering: Provide consistent moisture during the first few years to encourage a strong root system; once established, it tolerates short dry periods.
• Mulching: A 2–3 inch layer of mulch around the root zone helps retain moisture and moderate soil temperatures; keep mulch slightly away from the trunk.
• Pruning: If needed, prune in late winter or early spring to remove damaged branches and maintain a satisfying shape.

Northern Catalpa adds a stunning, upright statement to Michigan landscapes, delivering an inspiring canopy, fragrant blooms, and a refreshing seasonal transition in both spring and fall.