The Southern catalpa tree is an ornamental shade tree ( zone cold 6 zone warm 9) that produces dense clusters of white flowers and long seed pods. They can grow upwards of 70 feet in height, although more realistically, they typically grow to be around 50 feet. Purity of seed 90-95% with a germination rate of 60-80%. Because they are hardy plants that require very little water, various species are often grown outside of their native regions—particularly for their decorative features.
Catalpas are also deciduous trees, meaning they shed their leaves annually—usually in the fall or after the first frost. During this time, they also shed their long seed pods and flowers, which can deter some people from growing the tree.
They make excellent decorative plants for large areas including yards and parks. The large size and broad, heart-shaped leaves also make them great shade trees.
Some of its more notable attributes are the flowers and bean-like pods. Come springtime, beautiful and fragrant clusters of white, trumpet- or bell-shaped flowers cover the tree. The flowers resemble an iris, with its purple and yellow coloration on the inside. The fruits, which resemble green beans, hang down from the branches and provide another visually intriguing feature.
Although the fruits resemble bean pods (hence the name "Indian bean tree"), they're not usually eaten.
That being said, they are used in traditional medicine as treatments for ailments ranging from skin infections to conjunctivitis to asthma, although there is no scientific evidence backing these claims. According to the USDA, seeds and pods were used by pioneers in the 19th century to treat asthma, whooping cough, and various heart diseases.
Teas and poultices made from the bark and leaves are often used in herbal medicine as laxatives and mild sedatives, and to treat skin wounds and abrasions, infections, snake bites, and even malaria. There is also some scientific evidence for the diuretic properties of Catalpa fruits (pods and seeds).