2015 Ron Vanderhoff 2011 Ramona Robison 2014 Dean Kelch 2015 Ron Vanderhoff 2012 Ramona Robison 2013 Ramona Robison 2024 Jennifer Mo 2025 GMDRC - Sweeney Granite Mountains Desert Research Center saralipschutz
Catalpa bignonioides is a tree that is not native to California.
[Wikipedia] Range, Induced Defenses: Catalpa bignonioides is a short - lived species of Catalpa that is native to the southeastern United States in Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Louisiana, and Mississippi. Common names include southern catalpa, cigartree, and Indian-bean-tree[(or Indian bean tree).It is commonly used as a garden and street tree.
A 2003 study by J. Ness showed that when a hawkmoth caterpillar Ceratomia catalpae started eating the leaves of C. bignonoides, the leaves produced extra nectar. The nectar in turn attracted a greater number of bodyguard ants Forelius pruinosus to the damaged leaves, thus giving added protection to the whole plant. This is an example of a tree exhibiting a symbiotic relationship with nearby insects. (link added by Mary Ann Machi)
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Suggested Citation
Calflora:
Information on California plants for education, research and conservation,
with data contributed by
public and private institutions and individuals.
[web application]. 2025.The Calflora Database
[a non-profit organization].Available:
https://www.calflora.org/(Accessed: 07/15/2025).