5 Seeds Catalpa x erubescens Purpurea Purple Leaf Catalpa Tree

Catalpa x erubescens Purpurea is a striking hybrid ornamental tree grown for its large heart-shaped leaves that emerge deep purple-black before maturing to dark green, often retained with a purple tinge through the season. It develops an upright, broad-rounded habit and produces upright panicles of white bell-shaped blooms with purple and yellow markings in early summer, followed by long slender seed pods. A bold foliage tree suited to specimen planting where its dramatic leaf color can be appreciated.
This catalpa works well as a shade or accent tree in larger landscapes, parks, and spacious gardens. The ample canopy offers summer shade, and the flowering display adds seasonal interest for mixed borders and open lawns. It grows vigorously in moist, well-drained soils and can tolerate a range of conditions once established.
Species: Catalpa x erubescens
Variety: Purpurea
Type: Deciduous ornamental tree
Plant_Habit: Upright, broad-rounded canopy
Sun: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Moist, well-drained loam; adaptable
Days_to_Harvest: Not applicable
Zones: 5-8
Germination: Sow seeds and provide cold stratification for several weeks, then keep at around 65-75F; germination is often gradual and irregular
Sowing: Surface sow and press lightly into moist medium; do not bury deeply
Notes: Purple leaf color is strongest in full sun