Quick answer: Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is native to 9 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. It's typically seeds, verified 16 Sep 2026.
Photo: Mark Wagner, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY 2.5)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Low (not particularly drought-tolerant) |
| Soil | Deep, rich, moist |
| Bloom | Apr-Jun |
| Height | 75-100 ft |
| Wildlife value | Special value to honey bees |
Widely naturalized in the southeastern US outside its small native range (TN/AR/IN/MO); major litter producer, brittle branches break easily in storms
Buying it
Sold true to the wild species as of the last check (16 Sep 2026), via Amazon.
Sold as: Seeds via Amazon · listing verified 16 Sep 2026
See where to buy →Quick answers about Northern catalpa
Where is Northern catalpa native?
Northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa) is native to 9 states across the Midwest and South. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Northern catalpa bloom?
Northern catalpa blooms Apr-Jun. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Northern catalpa need?
Light: Part Shade. Water: Low (not particularly drought-tolerant). Soil: Deep, rich, moist. Mature height: 75-100 ft.
Is Northern catalpa good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Special value to honey bees.
Is Northern catalpa deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Northern catalpa is drought-tolerant and tolerates shade.
Where can I buy real Northern catalpa seed or plants?
We found a listing sold as seeds that names the true species, last checked 16 Sep 2026. Look for the scientific name Catalpa speciosa on any listing.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Northern catalpa.
- Loblolly pine Pinus taeda
- Yaupon holly Ilex vomitoria
- Shortleaf pine Pinus echinata
- Blackjack oak Quercus marilandica
- Sourwood Oxydendrum arboreum
- Roughleaf dogwood Cornus drummondii
Also listed under
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