About

Catalpa speciosa 'Pulverulenta' is a gradually expanding tree characterized by its broad, heart-shaped foliage, which is prominently marked with creamy-white spots. In mid-summer, established specimens produce upright clusters of white flowers adorned with purple and yellow spots. These blossoms are succeeded by elongated, bean-like seedpods.

About the genus

Catalpa are broad-spreading deciduous trees characterized by their large, attractive leaves and upright clusters of bell-shaped flowers that appear in late summer. After flowering, they produce elongated, slender seed pods that remain on the tree.

Growing conditions

Sunlight
Full sun
Soil type
Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil moisture
Moist but well-drained
Aspect
West-facing, South-facing, East-facing
Exposure
Sheltered
UK hardiness
H6

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Spreading branched
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
4-8 metres
Spread
4-8 metres
Time to full height
20-50 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, Sub-tropical, City and courtyard gardens

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in a moist but well-drained, fertile soil in a sunny position. Shelter from strong winds as these may shred the large leaves. Protect from late spring frosts when young
Pruning
Pruning group 1 or pruning group 7 if pollarding
Propagation
Propagate by softwood cuttings or grafting
Pest resistance
Generally pest-free
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to verticillium wilt and rarely, honey fungus