Catalpa fargesii Seeds | Farges’ Catalpa
LATIN NAME: Catalpa fargesii
COMMON NAME: Farges’ Catalpa
Plant Profile
Farges’ Catalpa (Catalpa fargesii) is a deciduous tree of the trumpet-creeper family (Bignoniaceae), native to central and southwestern China. It reaches 15-20 m, with large, heart-shaped leaves and clusters of pink to pale purple, spotted, bell-shaped flowers in summer, followed by long slender pods. Named for the French missionary-botanist Paul Farges, it is one of the handsomest of the Chinese catalpas.
Science & Biotechnology
Botanists studying the Catalpa group regularly include Catalpa fargesii in comparative work, and the species also appears in horticultural trials aimed at gardeners and growers. Its distinctive colouring also makes it a useful comparative subject for understanding pigment inheritance patterns within the genus. Little about its garden performance is mysterious; it has been grown and observed for a very long time.
Uses & Benefits
Beyond its ornamental appeal, Farges’ Catalpa has the practical versatility that makes a plant worth growing from seed year after year. It works well as a specimen or shade tree in gardens with room for its substantial eventual size. Getting it going is easy; keeping it going is easier still.
Catalpa bark and pods had folk use as a mild laxative and worm remedy in America, though the tree is grown today for its orchid-like flowers and shade.
Growing from Seed
Seed is the natural starting point for Farges’ Catalpa, and the process is uncomplicated. Sow seed into a loose, well-drained mix and keep it consistently moist, since this species needs no special pretreatment. Full sun to light shade suits this adaptable tree well, and it typically establishes readily, in time producing its distinctive pink flower display. Sow the seed evenly over the surface and cover lightly, using a loose, well-drained seed compost, and keep it just moist in full sun until the seedlings are well up. Prick the seedlings out once they are large enough to handle, grow them on in bright light, and plant out when conditions allow.
Our Take
Given the right start, Farges’ Catalpa is a long-term garden companion. Attention to moisture in the first weeks pays off; later, the plant is forgiving.
Related Reading
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