Northern Catalpa (Cigar Tree) vs Carpathian English Walnut

Northern Catalpa is a striking feature tree with showy flowers, and very large leaves. Its orchid-like flowers are white with yellow and purple accents, and they have a pleasant fragrance. They bloom from late spring to early summer and can last up to two weeks, attracting hummingbirds and pollinators. The leaves are very large, ranging from 15-30 cm long, 12-20 cm wide, forming a canopy that makes it a good shade tree.

They can tolerate dry conditions as well as standing water, air pollution, and salt. These factors and its beauty contribute to its growing popularity as both a boulevard and ornamental tree in colder areas.

Northern Catalpa produces long bean-like capsules and are sometimes called the Cigar Tree in reference to this fruit.

Carpathian English Walnut is a great shade tree or a fantastic addition to a food garden. The taste is described as having a full flavour with a hint of sweetness and butterscotch. They are great for fresh eating, cooking, and baking. Thin shelled nuts split right down the center, making them easy to crack. Harvest ranges from late September to early October.

It is known for being highly productive and more cold hardy than other English Walnut varieties.
Carpathian English Walnut is considered to be self pollinating but planting with a second variety will result in greater yields. It can be cross pollinated with Black Walnut and others.

Compare Northern Catalpa (Cigar Tree) with

Compare Carpathian English Walnut with