Northern catalpa trees are very fast growing trees with large heart-shaped leaves. Also known as Hardy Catalpa, Western Catalpa, Cigar Tree, and Catawba-Tree. The height at 20 years is about 20 feet. Catalpas prefer moist, deep, well drained soil, but adapts to dry or wet soils. The white flowers are on 4-8 inch long panicles in late June. Fruit is a long pod. Very tolerant of tough conditions.