CERCIS siliquastrum

Description:Common name: Judas Tree. An excellent large shrub / small tree with rosy-lilac pea like flowers are borne in mass on bare stems in spring before the leaves emerge creating a stunning site. The new foliage is vivid bronze and then develops to large heart shaped and fresh green and then finally vivid red - yellow in autumn. The conspicuous seed pods from July are purple tinted and remain throughout winter

Uses: As a spreading ornamental tree

Climate/Position: Full sun or dappled shade

Height/Spread: Height 6 metres. Spread 5-8 metres

Soil Requirements: Fertile, deep moist but well drained soil

Pruning: Well established plants can be pollarded in the spring to encourage large leaves

Special Requirements: Cercis do not like to be moved once planted

Additional Interest: Introduced as long ago as the 16th century. Legend has it that this is the tree on which Judas hanged himself