Northern Catalpa
Catalpa speciosa · Bignoniaceae (Trumpet-creeper family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous leaf
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an acuminate tip
Margin
Entire (smooth) and unbroken
Arrangement
Whorled (typically three leaves per node) or occasionally opposite
Venation
Palmate-pinnate hybrid venation radiating prominently from the base with a strong central midrib and raised lateral veins
Key Features
Massive heart-shaped leaves arranged in whorls of three, distinctive dangling long bean pods, and showy, ruffled white flowers with purple and yellow spots inside.
Description
The Northern Catalpa is a medium to large deciduous tree famed for its exceptionally large, tropical-looking heart-shaped leaves, showy orchid-like white flowers, and long, slender bean-like seed pods that persist through winter. It has a rounded, irregular crown, furrowed gray-brown bark, and rapid growth rate.
Habitat
Typically found in moist, rich soils along riverbanks, floodplains, and streams, though highly adaptable to urban environments, various soil types, and full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to the Midwestern United States, specifically the Mississippi River basin, but widely cultivated and naturalized throughout temperate North America and parts of Europe and Asia.