Overview:

The katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) is an excellent species for providing fall leaf color in the garden. It is usually free from any problems with diseases or pests.

Latin Name:

This is designated as Cercidiphyllum japonicum. Its sibling species (Cercidiphyllum magnificum) is also known as katsura. They are the only members of the Cercidiphyllaceae family. This is considered to be the type species.


Common Names:

This is known as the katsura tree.

Preferred USDA Hardiness Zones:

Plant this in Zones 4-8. It comes from China and Japan.

Size & Shape:

This tree will be 40-60' tall and 20-60' wide when it reaches maturity. It can form into either an oval or pyramidal shape.

Exposure:

Choose a planting site where there is full sun to part shade.

Foliage/Flowers/Fruit:

The heart-shaped (cordate) leaves are similar to those of redbuds.When they first unfurl, they are red. They become light green as the season progresses. In the fall, the foliage changes to beautiful hues of red, orange and yellow. They may smell similar to burnt sugar once they fall.

This is a dioecious species and your katsura tree will bear either male or female flowers. The male flowers are red and the female ones are green. After pollination, the female flowers will form a dry seed pod.

Design Tips:

If you want your katsura tree to have a weeping form, look for the 'Pendula', 'Amazing Grace', 'Morioka Weeping' and 'Tidal Wave' cultivars.

Growing Tips:

This tree may have problems in drought conditions, so try to keep it watered regularly if possible or the leaves will start dropping.

Maintenance/Pruning:

There is not usually any pruning required for this tree.

Pests & Diseases:

There are usually not any problems found on this species.