Cercis Siliquastrum

• Botanical Name: Cercis siliquastrum
• Common Names: Judas Tree, Love Tree
• Mature Height: 15-30 feet (4.5-9.1 meters)
• Mature Spread: 15-25 feet (4.5-7.6 meters)
• Growth Rate: Moderate
• Light Requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil Requirements: Well-draining soil; tolerates a range of soil types including clay, loam, and sandy soils; prefers neutral to slightly alkaline pH
• Water Needs: Moderate; drought-tolerant once established
• Foliage: Deciduous; heart-shaped leaves, bright green in summer, turning yellow in fall
• Flowers: Small, pea-like flowers, pink to purple in color, bloom in clusters directly on the branches and trunk (cauliflory); appear in early to mid-spring
• Fruits: Flat, brown seed pods (siliques) that develop in late summer and can persist into winter

Uses:

• Ornamental: Ideal for use as a specimen tree in gardens and landscapes due to its stunning springtime flowers and attractive foliage.
• Urban and Street Tree: Suitable for urban environments due to its moderate size and adaptability to various soil types.
• Cottage and Wildlife Gardens: Its flowers attract bees and other pollinators, making it a valuable addition to wildlife-friendly gardens.

Benefits:

• Showy Flowers: The Judas Tree’s abundant pink to purple blooms create a spectacular display in spring, brightening up the landscape.
• Adaptable: Tolerates a variety of soil conditions and is relatively low-maintenance once established.
• Attracts Pollinators: The flowers attract bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Its heart-shaped leaves, colorful flowers, and attractive fall foliage add multi-season interest to gardens and landscapes.

Cercis siliquastrum, or Judas Tree, is a beautiful and versatile tree that enhances any landscape with its stunning floral display, attractive foliage, and adaptability. It is an excellent choice for gardens, parks, and urban settings, providing year-round interest and ecological benefits.