tree RHS Award

Purple Leaf Catalpa

Catalpa erubescens 'Purpurea'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

300 inches

Width

270 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Average to High

Lifespan

Medium (50-70 years)

Native To

Hybrid Origin (North America x China)

Toxicity

Mildly toxic if ingested

The Story

Plant Bio

A medium-sized deciduous tree with a rounded crown, large heart-shaped leaves, and showy panicles of orchid-like white flowers followed by long, bean-like seed pods. 'Purpurea' is notable for its new foliage, which emerges a dramatic deep purple-black color, gradually maturing to dark green as summer progresses.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

The primary appeal is the stunning, deep purple new foliage that provides a bold, tropical look in spring. This is followed by beautiful, orchid-like white flowers. Even after the leaves fade to green, the tree's large leaves and rounded form are attractive.

It is a fast-growing tree that provides quick shade. Its tolerance of urban conditions and a wide range of soils makes it a versatile choice for many landscapes. The dense canopy can help reduce summer cooling costs.

The large, fragrant flowers are a valuable nectar source for pollinators, including bees and hummingbirds. The tree is the sole host for the catalpa sphinx moth, whose caterpillars are a prized food source for birds and popular as fish bait.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

Select a location in full sun for best foliage color.
This tree is adaptable to most soil types but prefers moist, well-drained loam.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at ground level.
Backfill with soil and water thoroughly to remove air pockets.
Water regularly during the first growing season to establish.

Pro Tip

For the most dramatic foliage, pollard the tree annually in late winter, cutting it back to a framework of 1-3 buds.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide full sun for the deepest purple foliage.
Water during extended periods of drought.
Consider pollarding or coppicing to maintain a shrub-like form with huge leaves.
Enjoy the showy, fragrant flowers in early summer.

Don't

Don't plant where falling seed pods will be a nuisance on patios or walkways.
Avoid planting in very wet, poorly drained sites.
Don't worry about caterpillar damage; healthy trees usually recover quickly.
Don't plant too close to buildings due to its eventual size.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Pest Check
Prune
Spring Cleanup

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic foliage specimen for spring interestMedium-sized shade tree for urban gardensBold accent with a tropical feel

Companion Plants

Weigela 'Wine & Roses' Physocarpus opulifolius 'Diabolo' Sambucus nigra 'Black Lace' Spiraea japonica 'Goldmound' Heuchera 'Palace Purple'

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Purple Leaf Catalpa questions

What zones can Purple Leaf Catalpa grow in?

Purple Leaf Catalpa is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Purple Leaf Catalpa deer resistant?

Yes — Purple Leaf Catalpa is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Purple Leaf Catalpa bloom?

Purple Leaf Catalpa typically blooms in late spring through early summer. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.

Does Purple Leaf Catalpa need full sun?

Purple Leaf Catalpa does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Purple Leaf Catalpa drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Purple Leaf Catalpa handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.