Under the Catalpa Tree

There is a remarkable tree in my neighbourhood that dates back more than 125 years. For standing and growing as long as it has, the tree has been recognized as a Heritage Tree, a program of Trees Ontario and the Ontario Urban Forest Council.

Catalpa tree on Davenport Road, Toronto

The tree is a Catalpa, a deciduous tree native to North America, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia. It grows quickly and is appreciated for its showy, ornamental flowers.  The heritage tree is enormous. It grows on a hillside. Its main trunk leans out at an angle over the sidewalk before rising to the sky.

Twisted trunk of the Catalpa tree

The trunk is twisted and contorted and the bark is marked by deep fissures.

Heart-shaped leaves of the Catalpa tree

The leaves are heart-shaped and broader than the span of a hand.

The orchid-like flowers of the Catalpa tree

The tree produces orchid-like flowers in June. The flowers are a pure white, while the throats of the blooms are purple and yellow. They are showstoppers!

Since I first discovered the existence of this tree a few years ago, I have made a point of walking to see it in bloom each spring. This year on my walk, I reflected on growing a little older, and the passage of time became more prominent in my thoughts. I imagined what this Catalpa tree might have seen and experienced during its more-than-a-century of existence. I admired its persistence across time and was humbled by it. The experience inspired this poem.  

Under the Catalpa Tree

Under the catalpa tree

in the shade of a giant

leaves larger than the span of my outstretched hands

Palms to the sky

neck craned

spinning,

slowly,

seeking sunlight through dense green canopy

Under the catalpa tree

trunk thick, tall, and twisted

contortions of time recognized by my aging body

Knees bend

bone on bone crunches

feet gripping,

grasping,

climbing higher yet seeking direction

Under the catalpa tree

enticed by invitations of pure snowy orchids

deeper into striped purple and yellow throats

Eyes strain

squinting into the depths

probing for purpose,

calling for clarity,

seeking focus

Under the catalpa tree

in the presence of memory

in the presence of a century

I am dwarfed 

by my own inconsequential history

You can read more about the remarkable Catalpa tree that inspired this poem at this link.

Click on the link for a map of Ontario Heritage Trees. I think following this map has great potential for an amazing road trip.

Happy Gardening!