Indian-bean
Catalpa bignonioides
Last reviewed: June 2026
Catalpa bignonioides is a deciduous tree native to the southeastern United States that produces showy white trumpet-shaped flowers from May through July. This adaptable species thrives in full sun and attracts bees and butterflies to its fragrant blooms.
The USDA PLANTS Database (opens in new tab) does not flag Indian-bean as toxic to livestock.
Light
full sun
Water
medium
Size
240"–480" H × 240"–360" W
Bloom
May, Jun, Jul
Native to
AL, FL, GA, LA and 2 more states
Pollinators
bees, butterflies
Browse plants for this ecoregion
Indian-bean is a medium to large deciduous tree with broad, heart-shaped leaves and showy clusters of white, orchid-like flowers in late spring and summer. After flowering, it produces distinctive long, slender seed pods that hang from the branches and give the tree its common name.
Growing Indian-bean
Grow Indian-bean in full sun and medium water. Mature plants reach 240 to 480 inches tall and spread 240 to 360 inches wide. Expect moderate maintenance to keep it looking intentional in a front yard.
In an HOA neighborhood
Indian-bean takes more care to keep looking intentional in a front yard. Maintenance level: moderate. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Works well in: backyard only.
- Very large mature size may overwhelm typical residential lots
- Drops large leaves, flowers, and long seed pods creating significant cleanup
- Irregular growth habit appears less formal than typical street trees
Wildlife value
Host plant for catalpa sphinx moth.
The fragrant flowers attract bees and butterflies during the extended bloom period from May through July. The large leaves and branching structure provide good nesting sites and shelter for birds.
Common questions
- When does Catalpa bignonioides bloom?
- Catalpa bignonioides blooms from May through July, producing clusters of white, trumpet-shaped flowers that are fragrant and attractive to pollinators.
- What pollinators visit Catalpa bignonioides?
- Bees and butterflies are the primary pollinators of Catalpa bignonioides, drawn to its large, showy flower clusters during the summer blooming period.
- Where is Catalpa bignonioides native?
- Catalpa bignonioides is native to Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Texas in the southeastern United States.
- What growing conditions does Catalpa bignonioides prefer?
- This adaptable tree grows best in full sun but tolerates partial sun, and can handle a wide range of moisture conditions from wet to dry soils.
- Is Indian-bean toxic to livestock?
- The USDA PLANTS Database does not flag Indian-bean as toxic to livestock.
- Is Indian-bean HOA-friendly?
- Indian-bean takes more care to look intentional in a front yard. Consider it for backyard or mid-zone beds rather than the street edge.
Native range data from the USDA PLANTS Database and regional native plant society lists. Pollinator and host plant associations compiled from GBIF, iNaturalist, and published ecological literature.
Ready to grow Indian-bean? Add it to your garden in Pollinator Patch to track it and get season-by-season care guidance.
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