Chinese Catalpa
Catalpa ovata
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Pl. 24C4 — Catalpa ovata
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IOverview
Overview
Chinese Catalpa, scientifically known as Catalpa ovata, is a deciduous tree native to several regions in China, including North-Central, South-Central, and Southeastern areas, as well as Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. This plant thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that can be light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It is hardy in zones 5-9 and can grow up to 10 meters tall. Chinese Catalpa is notable for its edible parts, which include the flowers and seedpods, making it a valuable addition to gardens not only for ornamental purposes but also for culinary use.
Quick answers
What is Chinese Catalpa?
Chinese Catalpa, scientifically known as Catalpa ovata, is a deciduous tree native to several regions in China, including North-Central, South-Central, and Southeastern areas, as well as Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, Qinghai, and Xinjiang.
Growingconditions · propagation · uses
VCultivation
Cultivation
Chinese Catalpa thrives in full sun and prefers moist soil that is light (sandy), medium, or heavy (clay). It grows well in hardiness zones 5-9, making it suitable for temperate regions. This tree can reach a height of 10 meters and is native to several areas in China including North-Central, South-Central, Southeastern parts, Inner Mongolia, Manchuria, Qinghai, and Xinjiang. For propagation, you can use seeds or cuttings. Enjoy its edible flowers and seedpods!
Light
Full sun
Water
Moist
Soil
Light (sandy), Medium, Heavy (clay)
Hardiness
5-9
Habit
Tree
Mature size
10.0 m tall
For first-time growers
How to grow Chinese Catalpa for the first time
8steps
Start with planting Chinese Catalpa in a sunny spot, and follow these steps for success.
- 1
What you'll need
Seeds or young plants, garden gloves, trowel.
- 2
Best time to plant
Plant seeds in spring after the last frost or transplant young plants in early spring or late fall.
- 3
Soil and container prep
Choose a location with well-draining soil; amend heavy clay soils with compost. For containers, use a pot at least 30 cm wide and deep, filled with a mix of loam, sand, and compost.
- 4
Sowing or transplanting
Direct sow seeds in the ground after danger of frost is past, covering them lightly. Alternatively, start seeds indoors 6-8 weeks before planting outside, then transplant carefully.
- 5
First two weeks
Water regularly to keep soil moist but not waterlogged. Monitor for pests and diseases; treat if necessary.
- 6
Ongoing care
Provide regular watering during dry spells. Fertilize once a year in early spring with a balanced fertilizer. Prune in late winter or early spring to maintain shape and remove dead branches.
- 7
Harvest or pruning
Prune young trees to encourage branching; prune mature trees only as needed for shaping or removing dead wood. Harvest flowers for decorative purposes if desired.
- 8
Common mistakes
Overwatering, planting in heavy clay soil without amending, neglecting winter protection in colder zones, and not providing enough space for the tree to grow.
VIEdible & utility
Edible & utility
Edible parts:FlowersSeedpod
Edible uses: The flowers and seedpods of the Chinese Catalpa are edible. The flowers can be eaten raw or cooked in stir-fries, while the seedpods are typically harvested when young and tender, then either eaten raw or cooked in soups and stews.
Other uses:Fragrance
Contextrange · companions · related
VIIDistribution
7 native · 21 introduced
Distribution
7 native · 21 introducedDistribution across2 continents· 7 native· 21 introduced
Europe4 regions
introduced (4)BulgariaHungaryItalyRomania
Asia3 regions
native (1)China
introduced (2)JapanSouth Korea
Broader regions
introduced:New York, Ohio, Ontario, Pennsylvania, Vermont, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Connecticut, Masachusettes, District of Columbia, Maryland, Massachusetts, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska
IXSpecimen gallery
1 image
Specimen gallery
1 imageXI
Explore further
Companion planting
Growing zone
XII
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