

How to identify Chinese catalpa (Catalpa ovata)
Chinese catalpa, also known as Yellow catalpa
Chinese catalpa stands as a modestly sized tree that exhibits a rounded crown when it reaches maturity. Its branches are adorned with large, heart-shaped leaves that might show signs of wear as the seasons turn. The foliage is vibrant green, offering a lush appearance during the growing period. With a propensity for both sunny and lightly shaded environments, chinese catalpa thrives in moist, rich soils. Despite its adaptive nature, chinese catalpa can exhibit irregular growth patterns, resulting in a somewhat asymmetrical silhouette.
Bell-shaped flowers with yellow-white color, marked by purple and orange spots (3/4 inches or 1.9 cm wide)
Elongated seed pods, starting green and maturing to brown, splitting lengthwise to reveal fluffy white seeds (16 inches or 40 cm long)
Large heart-shaped leaves, smooth texture, light green color with hairy veins on undersides (10 inches or 25 cm long and wide)
Robust trunk with ridges and deep fissures, transitioning bark color from gray to brown, especially apparent in mature specimens with a diameter of 1-2 feet (30-60 cm)
Chinese catalpa leaves are large, measuring approximately 10 inches (25 cm) in both length and width. They are ovate in shape, exhibiting a light green color. The edges can vary from entire to lobed margins. The base is cordate, while the tips are pointed. The texture of the leaves is smooth, except for the undersides, which have hairy veins. During the fall, the leaves display an insignificant yellow color change.
The flowers of chinese catalpa are bell-shaped and measure approximately 3/4 inches (1.9 cm) wide. They are predominantly yellow-white with distinctive purple and orange spots, adding to their ornamental appeal. Arranged on 10-inch (25 cm) long panicles, these flowers bloom in late spring. Resembling orchids, their intricate pattern and subtle hues make them notable. These flowers, although not as showy as some related species, are unique due to their coloration and structure.
The fruit of chinese catalpa is characterized by elongated seed pods that start as slender greens and gradually mature to a brown hue. They measure approximately 16 inches (40 cm) in length and 1/3 inch (0.85 cm) in width. Upon reaching maturity, these pods split lengthwise, revealing an interior laden with fluffy white seeds that contrast starkly with the brown exterior. The elongated pods and the distinctive seed presentation are key identification features for this species.
Gardenia jasminoides is an evergreen shrub with unique, glossy evergreen leaves and stunning flowers. The sophisticated, matte white flowers are often used in bouquets. The exceptional beauty of this ornamental plant has made it a popular and highly appreciated plant amongst gardeners and horticulturalists.
The golden pothos (Epipremnum aureum) is a popular houseplant that is commonly seen in Australia, Asia, and the West Indies. It goes by many nicknames, including "devil's ivy", because it is so hard to kill and can even grow in low light conditions. Golden pothos has poisonous sap, so it should be kept away from pets and children.
Solanum lycopersicum is an annual or perennial herbaceous vine native to Central and South America that produces a large, juicy, edible fruit known as tomato. Today there are over 10000 cultivated varieties. Although tomato is the world’s most popular vegetable, botanically it is a fruit.
The pepper are commonly used for cooking in places such as the Southern U.S. and Central America. Most are moderately spicy, though because there are so many variants, the spice level can vary dramatically. Cayenne powder is also a popular seasoning product made from pepper plants.
The swiss cheese plant (Monstera deliciosa) produces bright, glossy leaves and makes a popular houseplant. It is originally native to tropical forest regions in Central America. The nickname swiss cheese plant refers to the small holes that develop in the plant's leaves. The long fruits resemble corncobs and smell sweet and fragrant when ripe.
The bigleaf hydrangea is a deciduous shrub native to Japan, and is known for its lush, oval, colorful inflorescence. The two types of Hydrangea macrophylla are mopheads - with large, ball-shaped, sterile flower clusters, and lace capes - with small round fertile flowers in the center, and sterile flowers on the outer side of each inflorescence. Depending on soil pH, blooms can change color from pink to blue.
Scientific Classification of Chinese catalpa