Cercis siliquastrum, commonly called Judas tree or Mediterranean redbud or love tree, is a deciduous, often multi-trunked, understory tree with a rounded crown that typically matures to 15-25′ tall and as wide . This tree is native to woodlands in the Mediterranean region extending from southern Europe to western Asia.
Is a Judas tree fast growing?
It is quite easy to care for and grows relatively fast . Native to Europe and Asia minor, you'll find this tree appealing of course in spring with its fabulous flowering as you will in fall when it takes on luminous golden colors.
How quickly does a Judas tree grow?
Depending on the climate and location, the shrubs grow to four to six meters high and just as wide. They grow relatively slowly, about 25 to 30 centimeters per year .
How do you prune a Judas tree?
Older branches of the Judas tree are best pruned in spring after flowering . Young shoots are constantly trimmed back to two or three leaves during the growing season and unwanted buds and shoots are removed at any time. Cercis trees can best be wired in June.
How do you care for a Judas tree?
A full sun to part shade lover , this Redbud is easily grown in well-drained soils. Performs best in moderately fertile soils with regular and consistent moisture. Best flower production is obtained in full sun but part shade is best in hot summer climates. Needs a winter chill before flowers set properly.
Is a Judas tree poisonous?
It doesn't matter if children put the blossoms in their mouths, because they are edible. They taste sweet and slightly sour and are rich in vitamin C. Judas tree seeds, however, contain small amounts of the amino acid canavanine, which can cause mild digestive upsets.
Why is it called a Judas tree?
Its common name derives from the belief that Judas Iscariot hanged him- self from this tree species after he betrayed Jesus . (It has other common names, too, with more cheerful connotations—including the love tree and the Mediterranean redbud.)
Is a Judas tree the same as a redbud tree?
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), a small native tree currently in bloom, is sometimes also called the Judas Tree or Flowering Judas. ... However, when Judas Iscariot betrayed Jesus and committed suicide by hanging himself, the tree he chose to use was the Redbud.
How do you germinate a Judas tree?
The first (and easiest) method is place the seeds in a heat proof container and pour hot (near boiling) water over them and leave them to soak for between 24 hours . Seeds that have been successfully pretreated will have swollen to around 2-3 times their previous size.
Why is my Judas tree dying?
Root and crown rot of the Judas tree is caused by the fungus Phytophthora . Leaves become discolored, stunted and drop, and a vertical stain or canker may be visible on the tree's trunk. Branches may die back, and the tree may gradually decline and die.
When should I prune my Cercis?
Remove any broken, diseased or crossing branches in late autumn or winter . However for large foliage this variety can tolerate hard pruning in early spring once it is established, then apply a balanced general purpose fertiliser.
What are deciduous trees?
They include oaks, maples, and beeches, and they grow in many parts of the world. The word deciduous means to “fall off ,” and every fall these trees shed their leaves. Most deciduous trees are broad-leaved, with wide, flat leaves. The trees often have a rounded shape, with branches that spread out as they grow.
How do I germinate Cercis Siliquastrum?
Germination Instructions
Prior to sowing soak seeds for 24-48 hours in warm water . Sow 1mm deep into moist, well-drained compost, place in a cold frame in autumn. Allow natural winter cold to offer ideal conditions for germination to occur in spring as the weather warms. Can be sown indoors at any time, ideal temp.
Will Judas tree grow in clay soil?
The Judas tree will grow in any moist yet well drained soil in full or part sun, however Cercis will tolerate a drier soil or even clays .
What soil does Cercis like?
For best results grow Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy' in fertile, moist but well-drained soil , in sun or partial shade. Mulch annually with well-rotted leafmould, garden compost or manure.
What is the difference between Cercis Siliquastrum and Cercis canadensis?
A smaller Eastern American woodland understory tree, the eastern redbud, Cercis canadensis, is common from southernmost Canada to Piedmont, Alabama and East Texas. It differs from C. siliquastrum in its pointed leaves and slightly smaller size (rarely over 12 m tall).
