Catalpa × erubescens ‘Purpurea’

‘Purpurea’ is a striking form of the hybrid Indian bean tree. Huge heart-shaped leaves emerge a deep purple-brown colour in spring, gradually maturing to fresh green through summer, giving a dramatic two-tone effect early in the season.

Mature trees produce panicles of tubular white flowers spotted purple and yellow in midsummer, followed by long slim bean-like seed pods. Reaches around 12 to 15m tall, often grown as a coppiced specimen kept shrubby for bigger, more dramatic leaves.

Plant in fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun, sheltered from strong winds which can damage the large leaves.

A cracking specimen tree for a large lawn, parkland, or coppiced shrub in a big border where bold foliage counts.