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Catalpa bignonioides ‘Aurea’
golden catalpa
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Image © Lynne Thompson/Great Plant Picks |
Printer-friendly Fact Sheet
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| Outstanding Qualities |
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Bold acid-yellow foliage is the hallmark of this small deciduous tree. In mid-to-late spring huge heart-shaped leaves explode from an open frame of branches creating one of the most dramatic foliage displays possible. The new leaves can have a slight blush of red that quickly gives way to a brilliant golden yellow. Once the foliage has fully opened it is surprising resistant to burning in full sun. Although, a fast grower in youth it will quickly slow down as the tree matures. Catalpas are known for being extraordinary tolerant of poor garden soils and once established can be quite drought tolerant. Once established for a few years, it can be coppiced, cut back hard to about 12 to 18 inches from the ground, annually or every two to three years. Coppicing will encourage a dramatic and robust flush of growth with extra large and blood foliage. If allowed to grow it will slowly become a glowing focal point tree. Pair with dark greens and bronze leafed plants to heighten the drama. Fine textures like large ornamental grasses create a lovely textural contrast. Because this tree is slow to leaf out, it is ideal for under planting with spring bulbs. |
| Culture |
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Golden cigar tree is easy to grow. It tolerates a wide range of soil conditions, as long as the drainage is good. The best growth and brightest color is in full sun to partial shade. Young trees may brown on the edges the first year or two, but once the root system is established it is resistant to burning. This deciduous tree can be coppiced to the ground in early spring. Coppiced plants should be grown in rich soil and have additional summer watering to encourage the robust growth and large foliage. If left to grow as a tree it will be relatively drought tolerant once established, only requiring occasional watering during prolonged dry periods. Little pruning is necessary. Dead, broken or poorly formed branches can be removed during winter. |
| Growing Habit |
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If left to grow as a tree, it will develop a rounded crown about 15 to 18 feet tall and slightly less in width in ten years. The robust growth from coppiced plants will reach 6 to 8 feet tall the following season. |
| Hardiness |
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USDA zones 5 to 9 |
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© 2009 Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden
Funded by the Pendleton and Elisabeth Carey Miller Charitable Foundation
Administered by the Elisabeth Carey Miller Botanical Garden