Indian bean tree and Japanese pagoda tree are often considered for the same spot in the garden (shade, specimen, flowers, pollinator friendly). The data below shows where they differ: size, hardiness, care, toxicity and price.
Catalpa bignonioides 6 m × 5 m after 10 years
A fast-growing tree with a wide, open crown, huge heart-shaped leaves, fragrant white flowers in upright panicles in early summer and long, cigar-like…
Styphnolobium japonicum 6 m × 4 m after 10 years
A large shade tree with a rounded crown that flowers in the height of summer, when few other trees do, with creamy white, scented panicles that bees…
Indian bean tree grows faster than Japanese pagoda tree.
Japanese pagoda tree tolerates drought better than Indian bean tree.
Japanese pagoda tree needs less care than Indian bean tree.
Indian bean tree is cheaper: about €46 at the size usually planted, against about €210 for Japanese pagoda tree.
|
Feature
|
Indian bean tree
|
Japanese pagoda tree
|
|---|---|---|
| Group | Large tree | Large tree |
| Size after 10 years | 6 m × 5 m | 6 m × 4 m |
| Ultimate size | 9–18 m × 6–15 m | 12–23 m × 12–23 m |
| Growth rate | Fast | Medium |
| Light | Full sun, Part shade | Full sun, Part shade |
| Soil | Average garden soil, Clay, Sandy, Calcareous | Average garden soil, Sandy, Calcareous |
| Hardiness | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) | down to -29 °C (USDA 4, RHS H7) |
| Foliage | Deciduous | Deciduous |
| Flowering | June–July, white | July–August, white |
| Water need | Medium | Medium |
| Drought tolerance | Medium | High |
| Maintenance | Medium | Low |
| Planting distance | 800 cm | 1000 cm |
| For dogs | no data | Toxic (uncertain) |
| For cats | no data | Toxic (uncertain) |
| For children | no data | Toxic |
| Typical price | approx. €46 | approx. €210 |
Prices are rounded, indicative values. Toxicity data is for information only. If your pet or child has eaten a plant, contact a vet or a doctor. Data updated: October 8, 2026
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