A species of Bignonia. Mentioned by Catesby, 1731–48. (N.E.D.)
1794. The catalpa is a large tree, with leaves remarkably simple and heart-shaped.—Martyn, ‘Rousseau’s Botany,’ xxii. 317. (N.E.D.)
1816. The broad-leafed, long-podded catalpa.—Henry C. Knight (‘Arthur Singleton’), ‘Letters from the South and West,’ p. 61 (Boston, 1824).
1818. The catalpa (Bignonia Catalpa) is now planted extensively in Opelousas, and is used for posts, bournes to the land, and other purposes demanding timber of long duration.—W. Darby, ‘Emigrant’s Guide,’ p. 80 n.
1819. In the yards [of New Orleans], frequently spread their umbrage, the pride of China, and the broad-leaved catalpa.—Henry C. Knight (‘Arthur Singleton’), p. 118 (Boston, 1824).
1823. It is here called petalfra, which, as well as catalpa, the received appellation, may be a corruption from Catawba, the name of the tribe [of Indians] by whom … the tree may have been introduced.—E. James, ‘Rocky Mountain Expedition,’ i. 36 (Phila.).
1850. The ailanthus, and catalpa, are our cockney’s favorite trees.—D. G. Mitchell, ‘The Lorgnette,’ ii. 166 (1852).
