Catalpa erubescens ‘Purpurea’
Purple Indian Bean Tree
Young leaves and shoots dark purple, almost black, maturing to dark green. Foxglove like flowers from a young age. Read more
Attributes
- Deciduous
- Tree shape: Spreading
- Size: Small
- Leaf colour: Purple
- Flower colour: White
- Flowering month: July
- Needs well-draining site
- Can be hard pruned
- Prefers full sun
- Award-winning
Description: This small deciduous tree has a slightly spreading form producing large, heart shaped leaves which, when young, are a deep glossy purple, turning to shades of dark green and chocolatey purple as they mature. Unlike some other catalpa varieties, it produces a foxglove like cluster of flowers even at a young age. The creamy white flowers feature purple and orange markings and are followed by long seed pods. Contrasts well with Catalpa bignonioides ‘Aurea’.
Catalpa Growing Tips: Grow in a moist but well-drained, fertile soil in sun or part shade. Shelter from strong winds as these may shred the large leaves. Protect from late spring frosts when young. Hard prune every winter to increase leaf size.
Height and Spread (after 10 years): 5m x 5m