Description
Growing up this was my youngest sister’s favorite tree. When in bloom she’d climb into the tree and disappear. Who could blame her? Its a beautiful tree with its large leaves and sweetly scented orchid-like white flowers marked with streaks of purple and two blotch smears of yellow. Much loved by hummingbirds. Its extensive root system makes it less than ideal for small gardens or near buildings, but is superb for erosion control and shade tree.
- Seed Count: 12-15
- Collection Date: Jan 2022
- Hardiness Zone: 4-9
- Height and Width: 18m x 12m
- Germination test type: press/candle
How to germinate Catalpa speciosa seeds
No pre-treatment required other than 24 hour soak in warm water prior to sowing. Surface sow and sow thinly as these will need room for their leaves as not to crowd each other out. Fluff up well draining moist humus rich medium and press seed flat onto the medium surface. Give the just the barest hint (3mm) of cover (such as silica sand or chopped pine needles) just to anchor the seed against the medium surface so the seed keeps moist. Drying out is the greatest danger so mist daily. A clear plastic cover will greatly help maintain humidity and increase seedling success. Germinate at 25C. Should start sprouting in 14 days. Give strong indirect light. Don’t let medium dry out.
