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Description
Cercidiphyllum Japonicum, also known as Katsura tree, is a deciduous tree that is native to Japan and China. It is a member of the Cercidiphyllaceae family and is one of the most popular ornamental trees in Japan due to its beautiful foliage and sweet fragrance. It can grow up to 60 feet tall and has a spread of 40 feet. The leaves of this tree are heart-shaped and turn a beautiful golden color in the fall.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Saxifragales |
| Family | Cercidiphyllaceae |
| Genus | Cercidiphyllum |
Appearance
The Cercidiphyllum Japonicum tree has a broad, spreading canopy and can grow up to 60 feet tall. The leaves are heart-shaped and can grow up to 4 inches long. They are a bright green color in the summer and turn a beautiful golden yellow in the fall. The bark of this tree is smooth and grayish-brown in color. In the spring, the tree produces small, inconspicuous flowers that are followed by small, brown, bean-like pods.
Care Guide
Cercidiphyllum Japonicum is a relatively easy tree to care for. Here are some tips:- Water: This tree prefers moist, well-drained soil. Water regularly during the growing season, especially during dry periods.- Fertilization: Fertilize in the spring with a slow-release fertilizer.- Soil: This tree prefers slightly acidic soil. If your soil is alkaline, add sulfur to lower the pH.- Sunlight: This tree prefers full sun to partial shade.- Hardiness Zones: Cercidiphyllum Japonicum is hardy in zones 4-8.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercidiphyllum Japonicum is relatively pest and disease-free. However, it can be susceptible to leaf spot and canker.
Habitat
Cercidiphyllum Japonicum is native to Japan and China. It prefers moist, well-drained soil and can be found in forests and along streams and rivers.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cercidiphyllum Japonicum be grown in a container?
A: Yes, this tree can be grown in a container, but it will need to be repotted every few years.
Q: How often should I prune my Cercidiphyllum Japonicum tree?
A: Prune in the winter or early spring, before new growth begins. Prune to remove any dead, damaged, or diseased branches, and to maintain the shape of the tree.
Q: Is Cercidiphyllum Japonicum a good shade tree?
A: Yes, this tree can provide excellent shade due to its broad, spreading canopy.
Q: Can Cercidiphyllum Japonicum be grown in a hot, dry climate?
A: This tree prefers moist soil and may not do well in a hot, dry climate.
Related Plants
– Cercidiphyllum Magnificum- Cercidiphyllum Chinense- Cercidiphyllum Japonicum Pendulum
References
– Missouri Botanical Garden: Cercidiphyllum Japonicum- The Spruce: Cercidiphyllum Japonicum- University of Florida: Cercidiphyllum Japonicum
