Northern Catalpa?

Question

There is a tree growing in my backyard, and I think it might be a northern catalpa based on how it looks. But the one growing in my yard has a small smooth trunk, unlike what I have seen in other pictures of them. It has the same leaves and long pod like things growing from it as well.

There are 2 of them, one being about 30 ft tall, the other a bit smaller

I live in the niagara falls area, does anyone know what this is?? its been bothering me for some time now

thanks!

Answer 1

Visit the link below which has got pictures of the plant.

http://plants.usda.gov/java/profile?symb...

Answer 2

That is definitely a Catalpa Tree. Does it get caterpillar-like worms on it in mid/late summer? They are excellent catfish bait, and if there are any places close that sell fishing bait, you might be able to sell them and make a little money. I have heard all my life (never verified it, though) that the Catalpa worms will only get on a female tree. I do know there are some trees they don`t get on.

I've read that the "caltapa" came from the name given the tree by a Native American tribe — Catawba of South Carolina. I also read that the Native Americans smoked the bean pods of the tree for questionable "medicinal" or hallucinogenic purposes. Therefore, the tree has also been called "smoking bean," "Indian bean" and "Indian cigar tree."

Check this site for growing info....

http://www.arborday.org/treeguide/treeDe...

Answer 3

We may need a picture of what you are speaking of..

Answer 4

moghusai's link above is exactly what you are looking for.

Yes it is a Catalpa tree.