Indian bean tree

Also known as: catawba; common catalpa; eastern catalpa; Indian cigar; smoking bean

A spreading medium-sized deciduous tree, with pale green, broad-ovate leaves to 25cm in length. Flowers 3-4cm in width, white, marked with orange and purple, in conical panicles. Fruit a slender bean-like pod

Scientific classification

Species: Indian bean tree (Catalpa bignonioides)
Genus: Catalpa
Family: Bignoniaceae

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Toxicity: Trees
Plant type: Higher than 12 metres
Height: wider than 8 metres
Spread: Deciduous
Foliage: Bushy
Habit: Spring · Summer · Autumn
Season of interest: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Indian bean tree pictures

Distribution of Indian bean tree

Distribution map

Southeastern USA

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Culture

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Toxicity

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Quick identification of Indian bean tree

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Indian bean tree care guide

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging
Watering: Full sun
Sunlight: Information to be completed
Ideal temperature

Watering

Moderate regular watering, avoid prolonged drought or waterlogging

Fertilizing

Balanced feed in spring and light repeat in growth season

Pruning

Little pruning is needed. Remove diseased, damaged, crowded or crossing shoots and unwanted growth. Timing depends on the plant: generally late winter or early spring; plants prone to bleeding and deciduous magnolias need different timing, and deciduous azaleas and lilacs are pruned after flowering.

Propagation

Propagate by seed, softwood cuttings or grafting

Growing

Grow in a moist but well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny position; will tolerate a heavy clay soil. Shelter from strong winds as these may shred the large leaves. Protect from late spring frosts when young

More growing and care information →