Loss of foliage may be serious, especially for shade and ornamental trees and nursery stock. While the catalpa worm is well known as a tree pest, it may be as well or better known to some for its attractiveness to fish. It is generally most common in the southern states. Catalpa is its only host plant, and all species of catalpa are apparently subject to attack. Southern catalpa is the species common to Alabama.
Northern catalpa is very similar to southern catalpa.
Both catalpas have been widely planted and have become established outside their natural habitats. Adults are strong fliers, but fly mostly at dusk or night and are not commonly seen. They are deposited in mound-like masses on the undersurface of leaves. Coloration is somewhat variable, and there appear to be two primary color phases, dark and pale. The sides are yellowish with some black spots and vertical lines.