A bold shade tree with very large heart-shaped leaves and showy upright panicles of frilled white flowers in summer, followed by long slender bean-like pods. Dramatic and fast-growing.
At a glance
- Plant type: Tree
- Mature size: 12 m H × 10 m W
- Aspect: full sun
- Water: regular, moderate watering
- Frost: hardy
- Maintenance: low maintenance
- Origin: Exotic
About Indian Bean Tree
Botanically, Catalpa bignonioides is a fast-growing tree in the Bignoniaceae family. It reaches around 12 m tall and 10 m wide at maturity, with deciduous foliage. White flowers appear in summer.
Where to grow Indian Bean Tree
Indian Bean Tree suits warm-temperate and cool-temperate climates and grows best in full sun. It is frost hardy and shrugs off cold winters.
Soil & planting
Indian Bean Tree does best in loamy and free-draining soil. Plant into well-prepared ground, firm the soil around the roots and water deeply to settle it in.
Watering & feeding
Indian Bean Tree is regular, moderate watering. A feed in spring with a balanced fertiliser keeps growth strong. In its first year, water deeply once or twice a week to settle the roots in, then taper off as it establishes.
Pruning & care
Prune Indian Bean Tree after flowering to keep it compact and encourage the next flush of blooms. Overall it is low maintenance.
Using Indian Bean Tree in the garden
Indian Bean Tree earns its place for a shade tree and a feature or specimen planting.
Companion planting & design
For a cohesive, low-care bed, pair Indian Bean Tree with other plants that enjoy the same regular, moderate watering and warm-temperate climate. Repeat it through a border to tie the planting together and give a sense of rhythm.
Good to know
It is thornless and easy to handle.
Buying Indian Bean Tree
Plant Sale lists Indian Bean Tree as advanced specimens and bare-root stock. Stock isn't live yet — register your interest using the panel above and we'll email you the moment it lands.