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Identification Clues:
The Northern Catalpa has very large heart-shaped
leaves that arise in clusters from the stem. Usually three or more
leaves grow around the stem similar to spokes of a wagon wheel. The
white flowers are large and showy, appearing in clusters on the outer portion
of the stem. The long, slender, cylindrical seed pods are spectacular,
reaching up to 20 inches in length.
Distribution:
Northern catalpa is native to the Indiana
and Illinois and parts of Arkansas and Mississippi. The species has
been widely planted in yards because of its showy flowers.
Highlights:
Because catalpa wood is resistant to decay,
it was heavily used for railroad ties. Some people avoid using this
species for landscaping because of the bean pods. However, the large
leaves and showy flowers make it very decorative and hard to resist. |
