Cercis siliquastrum

Description: 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 coloured 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.

B>Climate / Position: Full sun or dappled shade.

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

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

Introduced as long ago as the 16th century.

Legend has it that this is the tree on which Judas hanged himself.