Judas Tree (Cercis siliquastrum)

The Judas Tree (Cercis siliquastrum) is a small ornamental tree renowned for its spectacular pink-purple flowers, which appear directly on the branches and sometimes even on the trunk before the foliage is fully developed.

In March and April, the bare branches are covered with clusters of vivid pink to violet flowers, creating a striking display early in the season. This early blossom is also valuable to bees and other pollinating insects.

After flowering, large rounded, heart-shaped leaves appear. They may emerge with a bronzy tint before turning green in summer, then develop yellow to bronze-yellow autumn colour. The flowers are followed by long flattened seed pods, initially purplish and later brown, which can remain on the tree into winter.

With age, the Judas Tree develops a rounded, often spreading crown and may naturally form several stems. It generally reaches around 6 to 10 metres in height, sometimes more in favourable conditions.

It prefers sunny, warm positions and well-drained soil. It tolerates limestone well and becomes quite drought tolerant once established. As with many Cercis, it is best planted in its final position, as older trees do not appreciate being moved.

Botanical name: Cercis siliquastrum
Flowering period: March to April
Flower colour: Pink-purple to violet
Pollinator value: Good
Position: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well drained, including limestone soils
Foliage: Deciduous
Autumn colour: Yellow to bronze-yellow
Mature height: Approx. 6–10 m
Hardiness: Good
USDA zone: 6–9
Uses: Specimen tree, garden, park, multi-stem tree, small ornamental tree