Chitalpa
Chitalpa x tashkentensis
Bignoniaceae - Catalpa
Description
Leaves: Alternate, occasionally opposite; simple; 4" to 5" long, 1" wide; deciduous; entire; narrow-elliptic to lanceolate; dull green; glabrous above and slightly pubescent beneath.
Twigs/buds: Twigs orangish-brown to reddish-brown.
Flowers/fruit: Flowers perfect; blooms in late spring; terminal erect clusters (racemes); 1" long, trumpet-shaped, pink, white, or lavender, yellowish center with purple veins in the throat; showy. Does not generally produce fruit.
Bark: Smooth, light gray, becoming darkened and thickened with age.
Wood: Weak; little information available.
General: General name given to hybrids of Catalpa bignonioides (Southern catalpa) and the Utah native Chilopsis linearis (desertwillow); long blooming flowers provide nectar for hummingbirds. Prefers full sun to partial shade.
Landscape Use: Fairly drought tolerant, small, multi-trunked shade tree that can be trained to a single leader if desired. Fast-growing, yet handles strong winds without breaking. Deep root system prevents damage to patio or walks. Tolerates high pH soils, heat, and drought and is ideal for low-water landscapes. Zones 6-9.
Cultivars: 'Morning Cloud', 'Pink Dawn'.
Characteristics
General
Family | Bignoniaceae - Catalpa |
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Cultivar Availability | Yes |
Hardiness Zone | 6-9 |
Type | Broadleaf |
Utah Native | No |
Growth
Growth Rate | High |
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Mature Height | Medium |
Longevity | Medium |
Is Good Under Power Lines | No |
Crown Shapes | Shrubby |
Ornamental
Bark | No |
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Fall Color | No |
Flowers | Yes |
Foliage | No |
Fruit | No |
Tolerance
Shade | Low |
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Salt | High |
Drought | High |
Poor Drainage | Medium |
Alkalinity | High |
Transplanting | High |