Catalpa bignonioides aka Southern Catalpa
Taxonomy
Catalpa bignonioides, also known as southern catalpa, cigartree, or Indian-bean-tree, is a species of Catalpa that is native to the southeastern United States, including Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. It is commonly used as a garden and street tree due to its ornamental appearance. The original species can grow up to 18 meters high, but the spherical shape, usually available as a high strain, remains clear in growth. In addition to being a popular park and avenue tree, it is also grown in private home gardens. The cigar tree, a rare houseplant belonging to the Catalpa genus, is native to Eastern Texas to Southern Georgia. It is not challenging to grow and requires regular watering, long-lasting direct light, and well-draining soil. Repotting each time it doubles in size eliminates the need for added fertilizers.
Common names
Southern Catalpa, Indian Bean Tree, Catalpa, CigartreeHow to care for Southern Catalpa
Difficulty
With a bit of knowledge and dedication, you can successfully care for Southern Catalpa, making it a rewarding choice for those seeking a moderate challenge.
Water
Southern Catalpa should be watered regularly, allowing the soil to dry out between waterings.
Soil
Southern Catalpa loves a well-draining soil. Perlite and vermiculite help with drainage, while coco coir adds organic matter, so a good potting soil mix will have all three. You can improve store-bought soil by adding some perlite to it.
Lighting
Southern Catalpa thrives in bright and direct sunlight. To ensure your plant receives enough light to survive, place it less than one foot from a window. The current weather in your area may affect the placement in your home. For example, if you live in a region that has longer and more intense periods of sunlight, then you may want to place the plant farther away from the window to avoid direct sunlight and reduce the risk of sunburn. Alternatively, if you live in a region with relatively milder temperatures and less intense sunlight, then you may be able to place the plant closer to the window for increased exposure. Ultimately, the current weather in your area should be taken into consideration when determining the best placement for your Cigartree.
Dormancy
During the wintertime, it is common for Southern Catalpa plants to go dormant and their growth rate may slow down. Therefore, the amount of waterings should be spaced out more.
Toxicity
No verified data on the toxicity of this plant exists within Ploi's records. Should you, someone in your family, or your pet ingest plant material with an unknown toxicity level, it is recommended to seek medical advice.
Fertilizer
Once the Southern Catalpa has doubled in size or after a year has passed, it should be moved to a new pot. By replacing the soil with fresh potting soil containing all the vital nutrients, your plant will receive all the sustenance it needs, negating the requirement for fertilizer. It's important to remember that plants get their energy from the sun, not fertilizer.
Region of origin
Southern Catalpa’s native range is South-eastern N. America - Florida, Alabama, Missouri and Louisiana.
More info:
Wikipedia
