This tree is located between the Central Library loading dock and 21st Ave. S., near the crosswalk to the Wesley Place garage. If you have been taking the Main Campus tree tour, you have reached its end. If you wish, you can begin the Peabody tree tour by crossing 21st Ave. S. and continuing to the first tree. If you didn't start at the beginning of the Main Campus tour and want to begin there, you can go south along 21st Ave. S. one block and climb up to the pedestrian bridge from which you can view the first tree on the Main Campus tour.

Catalpa trees are best known for their long fruits that hang in great masses from the trees in the fall.  Although these seed pods look similar to those produced by members of the pea family, catalpa fruits produce flat, winged seeds rather than beans.  In the spring, the tree produces showy flowers that are quite interesting because they exhibit a color pattern known as "nectar guides".  These patterns guide intelligent insects like bees to the back of the flower for a nectar reward while the flower dusts the bee with pollen.

Because the tree has flowers, developing fruits, or mature fruits during most of the year, it is a relatively easy tree to recognize.  The fairly large, heart-shaped leaves are also typical for the species.

There are two species of catalpa which are fairly difficult to distinguish.  Most of the catalpas in Nashville are northern catalpa (Catalpa speciosa).  Although native to west Tennessee, catalpas are not common in the wild.  But they are common in cities where they are planted and establish themselves in disturbed areas.