Catalpa bignonioides aka Southern Catalpa
Taxonomy
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
To ensure optimal growth, the Southern Catalpa prefers bright indirect light for 6-8 hours each day. Insufficient light can result in slow growth and leaf drop, so it's important to find a well-lit location for this plant. Place it near a window, within a distance of 1 meter (3 feet), to enhance its potential for thriving.
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