Bring the Outdoors Home

Katsura Tree | Plant Profile

Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) are fragrant ornamental trees that are native to Asia. The attractive dense foliage that changes color with the seasons brings multi-season interest.

Katsura Tree prefers fertile, well drained soils in full sun to part shade. The soils must be consistently moist as these trees have little drought tolerance, particularly when newly installed. The foliage can be fragile to scorching or strong winds.

Katsura Tree are often planted singularly or in small groups. They can provide shade near patios or in back yards. Roots are rarely an issue so these trees are often used as street trees or near some structures.

Description

Katsura Tree Characteristics

Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) are deciduous ornamental trees. These medium to tall trees have dense foliage that grows in a rounded or slightly conical shape. The oval leaves change color with each season. In spring the leave buds are red or purple. The leaves turn to a medium green color in summer, but retain some red tinting. Fall colors can be orage, red, or yellow. Fallen autumn leaves are highly aromatic and are described as cinnamon or apple scents. Green pods follow small flowers on female plants if they were pollinated.

These ornamental trees are particularly hardy to plagues and pests. There are few, if any, life threatening diseases. They can be damaged by high winds or direct sunlight with dry soils.

USDA Climate Zone
Zones 4 - 8
Height
40.00 - 60.00
Spread
25.00 - 60.00'
Bloom Time
March - April
Water
Medium
Sun
Full Sun - Part Shade
Maintenance
Low
Deer Resistant?
Yes