This small tree shows off it’s pale pink or white orchid-like flowers in the spring. The large flowers gives a bit of a tropical look to this uncommon tree. The Chitalpa is at home in landscapes with low or medium water, but will not do well in constantly wet, muddy, soil.

Aphids are attracted to Chitalpa trees, help avoid this problem by avoiding using fertilizer. Fertilizer, especially with with high nitrogen content,  encourages succulent foliage that attracts aphids. Research shows that trees and shrubs do not grow better with fertilizer than without. So don’t fertilize your Chitalpa and avoid pesky pests.