Wood: The catalpa
tree has light, soft and weak wood that is naturally durable when properly
seasoned. In the 1930's catalpa groves were planted across Iowa and the
Midwest as this tree gained a reputation of producing good quality fence
posts quicker than any other. Today it is not an important timber tree but
it is occasionally used for posts, rails, interior finish, cabinetwork and
firewood.
Horticulture: Once popular as an ornamental, it is now seldom planted. In the autumn the color is poor and the leaves and pods can create a large amount of debris when they fall. Although a very handsome tree, its large size should be taken into consideration before planting in a small yard. Shown here located near Pearson Hall.
