• Common name: Catalpa.
• Scientific name: Catalpa bignonioides; Walter, Fl. Carol.
• Honoris Causa: María Josefa Izuel Giménez (01/27/2012)

ORIGIN: Southern United States

CHARACTERISTICS:

• Deciduous.
• Very fast-growing.

INTERESTING FACTS:

• The name of its species has two interpretations: The first is that its name comes from the resemblance of its flowers to bignonias (Bermuda lilies), and the second is that it was named in honor of Jean Paul Bignon (Librarian to Louis XV of France).

USES:

• MEDICINAL: Among other uses, its leaves have been employed to relieve respiratory problems and treat heart conditions.
• ORNAMENTAL: A beautiful and large tree with large, heart-shaped leaves. Its flowers are fragrant, and its fruits are long, thin pods that are very striking because they remain hanging from the tree after the leaves fall.