CERCIS siliquastrum

Deciduous - heart-shaped, blue-green leaves to 10cm (4in) long with notched tips, bronze when young and turning yellow in autumn.

Purple - Shades of purple/mauve/lilac/violet - cerise purple

Height - 10m (33ft)

Spread - 10m (33ft)

Tree - spreading, sometimes multi-headed. Clusters of 3-6 small flowers 1.5-2cm (½-¾in) long before and with the leaves. Long, flat pods in autumn.

Hardy - cold winter - Hardy in most places throughout the UK even in severe winters. May not withstand open/exposed sites or central/northern locations. Plant can withstand temperatures down to -15°C (5°F)

Full sun

Partial shade - dappled shade.

Additional Features - Good to know - wildlife plant - nectar and pollen for insects. Name refers to myth that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from this tree. More likely from French name, Arbre de Judée, meaning 'Tree of Judea'.

Pests & Diseases - leafhoppers, scale insects, canker, coral spot, Verticillium wilt.

Place of origin - southern eastern Europe, south west Asia.

Garden Location/Conditions - Suitable for small gardens - Suitable for small gardens

Hardiness - Fully hardy

Seasonal Interest - Autumn

Spring

Soil Conditions - Alkaline / Chalk loving

Fertile moist well-drained soil - loamy. Does not like to be transplanted.

Tree Shape - Rounded to broadly spreading

Wildlife - Bee friendly