Quishu, Autumn tree
Catalpa bungei
Family: Bignoniaceae
What it is like
A large deciduous tree. It grows 9 m high. It spreads 3 m wide. The leaves are almost triangle shaped. They have a long central tip. The flowers are produced in small clusters of 3-12. They are pink with brown or yellow marks. The seed capsule can be 50 cm long.
There are 11 Catalpa species.
Where it is found
It is a temperate plant. It will grow in most soils. It is best in an open sunny position. It is damaged by drought or frost. It suits hardiness zones 5-10. In Yunnan.
Countries/locations it is found in
Asia, Australia, China (country/location of origin), Korea, North America, Slovenia, USA
How it is used for food
The flowers are eaten in times of famine.
Edible parts
Flowers
How it is grown
Plants can be grown from seed. They can also be grown from softwood cuttings.
Its other names
Local names
Bungejev cigarovec