Southern Catalpa: "The Fish Bait Tree"

The Southern catalpa (Catalpa bignonioides) tree is a common fixture along roadsides and in old yards. The big green leaves and distinctive long dangling fruits are noticeable from hundreds of yards. Although used in the past for a variety of wood-based products, today catalpa is used for shade trees and for growing a special caterpillar. This catalpa “worm” is prized by fishing enthusiast across the South.

The link address is: http://warnell.forestry.uga.edu/service/library/index.php3?docID=178&