Species Katsura Tree
Brown branches having green leaves with tiny brown stem.

Katsura Tree

Cercidiphyllum japonicum

Also Known As - Japanese katsura tree
The Katsura Tree is an amazing species of tree that grows in both Japan and China. Its large leafy canopy makes it a desirable choice for gardeners, while its leaves turn beautiful shades of yellow, orange, and red in the fall. Its bark has a distinct cinnamon scent when burnt, and its winter form has an interesting, irregular shape. It's also revered for its unique heart-shaped leaves and pink, fragrant flowers. Plus, Katsura Trees are highly tolerant of air pollution and look great year-round. If that wasn't enough, it's even drought-tolerant and disease-resistant. A Katsura Tree is an ideal addition to any garden!

Cycle:

Perennial

Watering:

Average

Propagation:

Seed Propagation,Greenwood Cuttings

Hardiness Zone:

5

Flowers:

Green to reddish-green Flowers

Sun:

full sun,part shade

Soil:

Acidic, Well-drained

Fruits:

red,brown Fruits In Autumn Ready In Fall

Leaf:

Yes

Leaf Color:

green,red,yellow,purple,orange

Growth Rate:

Moderate

Maintenance:

Low

Drought Tolerant:

Yes

watering

The Katsura Tree needs regular and consistent watering. During the period of active growth, from spring until late summer, water the tree at least once a week and more during periods of heat stress. During the fall and winter months, water the tree less frequently, every 2-3 weeks, as it is not actively growing and therefore does not need as much water. Apply water directly to the soil at the base of the tree, never to the actual foliage, and water slowly until the soil is saturated to a depth of 2-3 inches. To check if the tree needs water, poke your finger just below the surface of the soil. If it is dry, then the tree needs water.

sunlight

Katsura Trees prefer direct sunlight during spring and early summer. They should receive a minimum of 4 to 5 hours of direct sun each day, with up to 7 or 8 hours being ideal for most growth. During late summer and fall, less direct light is recommended, since the tree largely shuts down active growth during these months. Though it can tolerate some full shade, avoid prolonged periods of darkness, as this can cause the tree to weaken or stunt its growth.

pruning

When it comes to pruning Katsura Trees, it's best to prune them early in the season, from late winter to early spring. Pruning should be done cautiously because the Katsura Tree is a slow grower. The main goal when pruning a Katsura Tree is to maintain its natural form and shape. To achieve this, prune the tree to remove any crossing branches and any dead or diseased wood. Also, to keep the tree from getting too tall, it's important to selectively remove some of the longest or tallest shoots. Prune out any thin, weak shoots to encourage the growth of more vigorous ones. Overall, a conservative approach to pruning a Katsura Tree is the best option. Avoid hard pruning and heavy removal of foliage as this can lead to excess stress on the tree. Less is more when it comes to pruning a Katsura Tree.

Season

Fall
Winter
Spring
Summer
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Harvest Fruit

The Katsura Tree typically begins to bear fruit in late summer, usually in August or September.

Starts Flowering

The Katsura Tree typically starts flowering in April.

Harvest Fruit

The Katsura Tree typically begins to bear fruit in late summer, usually in August or September.

Hardiness Map