Indian bean tree (catalpa tree) bean uses? : r foraging While catalpa trees are not generally considered highly toxic, some parts of the tree, particularly the roots, are known to be poisonous according to the USDA Plants Database. The leaves and seed pods Have you seen this impressive tree that produces bean pods and wondered what it was or what it could be used for? The Catalpa Tree (Catalpa bignonioides) is also referred to as Indian bean tree (catalpa tree) bean uses? : r foraging