Catalpa bignonioides

Also known as the Indian Bean Tree, Catalpa bignonioides is an incredibly handsome medium sized deciduous tree. A beautiful specimen tree, the foliage is pale green with huge, broad heart shaped leaves that can be 30cm (1ft) long. In late summer panicles of large, exotic, orchid-like white flowers with splashes of maroon and orange appear, often numerous enough to cover the leaves. These are followed in autumn by long, thin, dark brown bean shaped fruits, hence the common name. Fully deserving its coveted RHS Award of Garden Merit, you can be sure that this is a proven garden performer, guaranteed to be suitable for UK gardeners at every level of experience. You can therefore plant this in the garden with confidence, for stunning displays for many years to come. Also recommended by the RHS as a 'Plant for Pollinators', the flowers are a favourite with butterflies and bees. Growing to a height of 6m and spread of 5m in 20 years, and ultimately twice that size, Indian Bean trees cope well with pollution so they're great for city gardens. Protect young trees from late spring frosts and choose a spot sheltered from strong winds which can shred the large leaves. Supplied as 3 x established trees in 9cm pots, ready to plant.