Chitalpa tashkentensis Pink Dawn

The Chitalpa tashkentensis 'Pink Dawn' or Tashkent Chitalpa is an interesting ornamental tree for its spectacular summer flowering, fast growth, and resistance to both cold and drought. This hybrid between Catalpa bignonoides and Chilopsis linearis has a gently exotic appearance that is impossible to ignore. Its size allows it to fit well in a medium-sized garden, and it requires no maintenance once established.

Chitalpa tashkentensis is a hybrid obtained through spontaneous cross-breeding of Chilopsis linearis (desert willow) with Catalpa bignonioides (common catalpa). It was discovered in the Tashkent province in Uzbekistan and then multiplied "in vitro" in the 1960s-1964s. This large, sterile shrub belongs to the Bignoniaceae family. It is a plant that perfectly withstands both cold temperatures (up to -20°C) and dry summers. Chitalpa tolerates limestone well and prefers deep, well-drained soils.

The Chitalpa tashkentensis 'Pink Dawn' was selected in the USA. It is a fast-growing tree that reaches a height and width of 6 to 7 meters. It has a spreading habit and a wide, spherical crown. The relatively small, matte green leaves, measuring 10 to 15 cm long, give the tree a delicate structure. These are deciduous leaves that fall in autumn.

The flowers of the 'Pink Dawn' Chitalpa are one of its best features. They appear in panicles of 15 to 40 flowers, from May to late August, with a possible rebloom in September if the temperatures are warm. Each trumpet-shaped flower measures between 2.5 and 5 cm in diameter. They have a lavender-pink colour washed with white, a light yellow throat, and purple streaks. These flowers attract various pollinators. Unlike many trees, the 'Pink Dawn' Chitalpa is sterile and therefore does not produce any fruits. The bark of this tree is grey-brown and slightly channelled, adding an interesting texture to the trunk and branches. Adapted to warm climates, this 'Pink Dawn' Chitalpa shows less vigorous growth in colder regions. This tree prefers full sun and well-drained soils, even limestone soils. It is relatively resistant to diseases but can be sensitive to mildew in very humid environments. This tree can be pruned as a coppice shoots, meaning it can be cut close to the base as it regrows from the stump.

The Chitalpa tashkentensis 'Pink Dawn' is perfect for adding an exotic and colourful touch to the garden without requiring much care. It can be paired with plants that have similar soil and exposure needs. In warm regions, plant it in the centre of a bed composed of Lavandula angustifolia 'Rosea' (Lavender), Salvia microphylla 'Cerro Potosi' (Bush sage), and Rosmarinus officinalis 'Pointe du Raz' (Rosemary). In colder climates, create a border with Rosa 'Happy Chappy' (Ground cover rose) and Nepeta 'Kit Kat' (Catnip) to surround your Chitalpa.