Catalpa, Northern

The large, heart-shaped leaves and abundant, showy-white spring flowers give catalpa a tropical appearance.  Fortunately, the tree is much hardier than it appears and can even be grown in the far western reaches of the state. Catalpas prefer moist, deep, well-drained soil, but adapts to dry or wet soils. It also prefers an open sunny space to partial shade. Suitable to plant throughout the state.

The flowers are cross-pollinated by bees and various moths that are nocturnal. Other insects such as skippers, ants, and flies are also visitors but aren't effective cross-pollinators. 

When placed as an ornamental in a yard setting, care must be taken to ensure it is not too close to a building, fence, property line or septic system. Ample space should be provided to let it reach a mature height. It is an invasive, weedy tree which escapes cultivation easily. The flowers, long seedpods, and seeds fall down from spring through winter and create a mess on the ground anywhere near the tree. Its brittle wood makes its branches subject to wind and ice damage.

It is sometimes planted to attract the green catalpa worms, which are prized fish bait. These caterpillars can be frozen and used as bait at a later time.