Dwarf Alberta Spruce vs Northern Catalpa (Cigar Tree)

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.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce is a small tree with very dense foliage. It is an attractive specimen in landscape designs and small yards. This plant naturally grows into the classic conical shape, but responds well to shearing and pruning.

Dwarf Alberta Spruce is hardy and disease resistant. However, its thick foliage can collect mildew. Consider planting this tree in an open space where the wind can dry out its needles.

You can use this cultivar as a substitute for cedar or juniper.

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