In its native habitat, the common catalpa tree grows to a height of up to 18 m. With age, the crown tends to develop more in width. In recent years, the catalpa has been increasingly used in private gardens. On the one hand, its height makes it one of the smaller trees and it can be slowed down with sometimes drastic pruning measures if necessary. On the other hand, it is very undemanding and has few requirements in terms of soil and location. From June to July, it blooms profusely and is then an absolute eye-catcher in the garden. The tree is particularly effective when planted alone. The lower branches then reach the ground and create a picturesque image.

• Origin: Southeastern North America

• Growth height: 8–15 m

• Leaves: heart-shaped; up to 20 cm long; fresh green; light yellow autumn color; early deciduous

• Flower: June–July, 10–20 cm long, upright, richly branched panicles; individual flowers bell-shaped; white with yellow stripes and purple dots

• Fruit: curved fruit capsules up to 35 cm long, remaining on the tree until winter
  
  
• Soil/location: partial shade to sun; preferably windless, highly tolerant of drought, heat, and urban climate

• Special features: Similar to the bluebell tree, after radical pruning during dormancy, the trumpet tree sprouts very long shoots and gigantic leaves the following year. These are very decorative. One disadvantage, especially for use in private gardens, could be the very late sprouting of leaves in spring. It also loses its foliage comparatively early.