Catalpa-Catalpa speciosa

Something to think about:

Most observers would say the Catalpa (pronounced “Catawba”) tree is a pretty average tree. Its wood is used for fence posts not furniture; it doesn’t live an exceptionally long time, usually around 60 years, or grow to a great height; it can survive in almost any soil; its blossoms are beautiful in the spring and its bean shaped seeds are somewhat of a nuisance in the fall. It is a tree most pioneers never really cultivated or thought extraordinary. A run of the mill tree that might be fun for kids to climb but nothing more.

In fact, a lot like how the world might see you or me. Average. Nothing special.

Thankfully God looks at us as something far different than how others see us or maybe how we see ourselves. We are created in the image of the Creator. The One who made the most beautiful garden ever created made you his crowning achievement.

One more piece on the Catalpa tree. It is the sole host of the catalpa sphinx moth. The caterpillars that eventually form that moth are prized as bait for fisherman world-wide. In fact Catalpa trees have been planted for the sole purpose of attracting and gathering these worms. Fisherman who truly know their craft see something of great value when they see a Catalpa tree.

Just as our Heavenly Creator sees us. A treasure beyond all measure.

Learn More:

Catalpa-Catalpa speciosa is known for its large broad shaped leaves and long seed pods which resemble string beans. It is a species of Catalpa native to the midwestern United States. The Cherokee name, Catalpa, means Bean Tree. The Catalpa is a medium to large, deciduous tree that typically grows 40 to 70 feet tall. Catalpas are mainly used for their ornamental features. They make excellent decorative plants for large areas including yards and parks. The large heart-shaped leaves are broad, making them great shade trees.White, orchid-like flowers show off in spring. Medicinal teas and poultices are made from the bark and its leaves are used in herbal medicine to treat infections, snake bites and malaria.