Hybrid catalpa is the result of a cross between the Chinese catalpa and the native southern catalpa. Like other catalpas, this tree has showy white flowers in spring, followed by bean-like seed pods. This hybrid may be difficult to find in nurseries. When it is sold, it is often the cultivar ‘Purpurea’ that is available.
- Family (English) Bignonia
- Family (botanic) Bignoniaceae
- Planting site City parkway, Residential and parks, Restricted sites, Wide median
- Tree or plant type Tree
- Foliage Deciduous (seasonally loses leaves)
- Native locale Non-native
- Size range Large tree (more than 40 feet)
- Mature height 40-50 feet
- Mature width 40-50 feet
- Light exposure Full sun (6 hrs direct light daily), Partial sun / shade (4-6 hrs light daily)
- Hardiness zones Zone 5 (Northern Illinois), Zone 6 (City of Chicago), Zone 7, Zone 8
- Soil preference Moist, well-drained soil
- Drought tolerance Tolerant
- Other tolerances Alkaline soil, Dry sites, Road salt
- Season of interest late spring
- Flower color and fragrance White
- Shape or form Broad, Round
- Growth rate Fast
- Transplants well Yes
- Planting considerations May be difficult to find in nurseries, Messy fruit/plant parts
- Wildlife Insect pollinators
- Has cultivars Yes
