Record details

Common tree name

Western Catalpa

Species Name

Catalpa speciosa

Description

This is a type of Indian Bean Tree, but not the India of the far east as it comes from midwestern USA. The name Catalpa refers to the Catawba tribe of the indigenous people it was found nearest to. The distinctive large heart shaped leaves are late to come out in the spring but in July this tree, and its partner on the opposite side of the gate, are covered with masses of clusters of white flowers looking like bean flowers. The fruit looks like runner beans. In the States they used to smoke the bean pods, so it is sometimes called the cigar tree.

Country of origin

Central-western, North America

Credits

The 'Trees at Jephson's project' has been delivered by Warwick District Council. With the kind sponsorship of Leamington Town Council and the Leamington Society.