A living shade umbrella with a perfectly rounded canopy, the kind of patio-side charm that looks intentional from day one
FEATURES:
- Naturally rounded “umbrella” canopy that creates instant structure and design polish
- Excellent small shade tree for patios, seating areas, and outdoor dining spaces
- Large, heart-shaped leaves for bold texture and a lush summer look
- A true focal point that reads like living architecture in the landscape
- Great for tight spaces where you want shade without a massive footprint
- Easy to shape and maintain with simple, occasional pruning to keep the canopy crisp
- Hand Selected; Fresh from the Grower
- Ships on our trucks because the size of the tree - does not fit in a box.
Bower & Branch Landscape Design Tip:
Lean into the “outdoor room” vibe. Place a bench, bistro set, or pair of lounge chairs beneath the canopy, then frame the base with a simple ring of low evergreens or soft grasses. Keep the understory clean and intentional so the trunk and canopy shape stay the star, this tree is already doing the most in the best way.
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Mature Height: 10-15' tall
- Mature Width: 12-18' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun
- Spacing: 10-15' apart
Umbrella Catalpa
Bower & Branch Trees and Plants
Catalpa bungei
Regular price| Quantity | Automatic Savings |
|---|---|
| Buy 2 | Save $200 |
| Buy 3 | Save $500 |
| Buy 4 | Save $800 |
| Buy 6 | Save $1800 |
| Buy 10 or more | Save $4000 |
Plant with Confidence when choosing Big & Tall Trees and Hedges!
A living shade umbrella with a perfectly rounded canopy, the kind of patio-side charm that looks intentional from day one
FEATURES:
- Naturally rounded “umbrella” canopy that creates instant structure and design polish
- Excellent small shade tree for patios, seating areas, and outdoor dining spaces
- Large, heart-shaped leaves for bold texture and a lush summer look
- A true focal point that reads like living architecture in the landscape
- Great for tight spaces where you want shade without a massive footprint
- Easy to shape and maintain with simple, occasional pruning to keep the canopy crisp
- Hand Selected; Fresh from the Grower
- Ships on our trucks because the size of the tree - does not fit in a box.
Bower & Branch Landscape Design Tip:
Lean into the “outdoor room” vibe. Place a bench, bistro set, or pair of lounge chairs beneath the canopy, then frame the base with a simple ring of low evergreens or soft grasses. Keep the understory clean and intentional so the trunk and canopy shape stay the star, this tree is already doing the most in the best way.
Growth Facts
- Hardiness Zone: 5-9
- Mature Height: 10-15' tall
- Mature Width: 12-18' wide
- Exposure: Full Sun
- Spacing: 10-15' apart
Why plant Umbrella Catalpa?
This is the tree you plant when you want your yard to feel designed, not just planted. With its signature, rounded canopy perched above a clean trunk, it brings instant formality and charm, like the landscape version of a perfectly tailored jacket. The big, heart-shaped leaves add a lush, tropical-ish texture through summer, and the canopy creates a comfortable pocket of shade that makes you actually want to use your outdoor space, not just look at it from inside while holding your iced coffee.
It’s especially beloved for courtyards and patios because it creates a “room” outdoors. One tree, one move, and suddenly the yard has a destination.
How to use Umbrella Catalpa in the landscape?
Use it as a statement tree near patios, fire pits, or outdoor dining areas where its rounded canopy can provide shade and create a natural gathering spot. It’s a perfect choice for small courtyards, entry gardens, or along a walkway where the sculpted silhouette adds instant structure and a formal feel without needing an entire estate to pull it off. In mixed plantings, pair it with low, mounded shrubs and ornamental grasses to emphasize the clean trunk and umbrella shape, and consider repeating it along a drive or path for a rhythmic, resort-like effect that looks polished all season long.
Frequently Asked Questions
This tree is grown primarily for its sculpted, rounded canopy and bold foliage. When it does flower, catalpa blooms are typically white with yellow and purple markings, but flowering can be secondary and may vary depending on climate and growing conditions.
Plant in full sun with well-drained soil and water deeply during the first growing season to establish roots. After it’s established, provide supplemental water during extended heat or drought. A mulch ring helps retain moisture, just keep mulch a few inches away from the trunk.
Yes, light pruning helps maintain the crisp umbrella shape. Prune in late winter to early spring before new growth begins, removing crossing branches and tidying the canopy. Avoid heavy pruning during the growing season so the tree can keep its rounded silhouette.
