Umbrella Catalpa

Catalpa bungei is a deciduous tree native to China, with a rounded crown, broad heart-shaped leaves, and showy two-lipped flowers. Its mature size varies considerably by growing conditions and source, from a modest tree to one exceeding 30 metres. [Cambridge University Botanic Garden](https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/the-garden/plant-list/catalpa-bungei/) describes its habitat and flowers, and [Kew’s Plants of the World Online](https://powo.science.kew.org/taxon/urn:lsid:ipni.org:names:109144-1/general-information) confirms the accepted name and native range. ## Landscape use Grow this tree as a specimen where its rounded canopy and flower display can be appreciated. The common name umbrella catalpa refers to its broad crown, though the plant’s eventual size is not uniform. Select a site with enough clearance for the mature form. ## Foliage and flowers The broad, usually heart-shaped leaves are simple rather than divided. Tubular flowers have two lips and occur in racemes or corymbs, with as many as 15 flowers in a cluster. Slender, bean-like capsules develop after flowering. ## Siting and soil The species is native to central and southern China, where it grows in dry habitats ranging from roadsides to forests. Provide sun and well-drained soil; local size and flowering response vary with climate and cultivation. ## Maintenance Remove dead or crossing branches as needed and gather fallen capsules from paths. Avoid cutting back the crown severely, which can spoil its natural rounded form.