Catalpa bignonioides Nana 'Mop Top'

Catalpa bignonioides ‘Nana’, commonly known as Dwarf Southern Catalpa or Nana Catalpa, is a compact, deciduous tree with a naturally rounded, dense canopy.

Unlike its larger relatives, it rarely flowers, making it ideal for formal gardens and structured landscapes. Its broad, bright green, heart-shaped leaves create a lush, umbrella-like effect, turning golden-yellow in autumn. This slow-growing tree typically reaches about 3–5 meters tall and wide, making it perfect for small gardens, courtyards, or avenue plantings.

In Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide, and Brisbane, ‘Nana’ thrives in full sun with well-drained, fertile soil. It is tolerant of heat, pollution, and a range of soil conditions but benefits from regular watering during dry periods. Minimal pruning is required to maintain its compact, rounded shape. With its elegant form and striking foliage, Catalpa bignonioides ‘Nana’ is a beautiful and low-maintenance choice for providing shade and structure in garden landscapes.