The trumpet tree (Catalpa bignonioides) is a very striking phenomenon, especially when it is an older - and therefore larger - specimen in full bloom. Under the right conditions, the Catalpa, which originally comes from the USA, can reach heights of between 12 and 15 meters and be up to 10 meters wide. However, it may take a few years for your specimen to reach such an impressive size.
How fast does a trumpet tree grow?
A trumpet tree (Catalpa bignonioides) grows around 30 to 50 centimeters in height every year and, under optimal conditions, reaches a size of 12 to 15 meters. Fertilization can promote growth, but at the expense of flowering.
Growth rate between 30 and 50 centimeters per year
Per year, a trumpet tree in a good location and with appropriate care achieves an average growth of between 30 and 50 centimeters. This makes the tree one of the slower growing plants, although the spherical trumpet trees, which remain significantly smaller, are even much slower. The dwarf but very popular variety 'Nana', for example, only gains between five and ten centimeters in height (and width!) every year.
Tip
You can accelerate the growth of the trumpet tree with appropriate fertilization (€10.00 on Amazon). Please note, however, that the use of a growth-accelerating, nitrogen-containing fertilizer can prevent flowering.