Despite the name, this showy tree was introduced from the southern USA in the 1700s. The impressive large leaves flush bright green in springtime, followed by large orchid-like flowers in June/July and the characteristic ‘runner bean’ seed pods later on. There was once an avenue of Catalpa along the Red Mount Walk, planted by Town Mayors, but they have proved susceptible to wind damage. Two remain and a new one was planted in 2024.
