The heartwood of Catalpa can range in color from a neutral grayish color to a richer golden brown while the sapwood is a pale grey. The grain is straight and it has an open coarse texture. The end grain is ring-porous. Catalpa is rated as durable in regards to decay. It is an easy wood to work with and turns,glues, and finishes well. Precautions must be taken when sanding this wood.