Judas Tree

From the eastern Mediterranean, the Judas tree, Cercis siliquastrum, is a small, bushy deciduous tree, ideal for the smaller garden. Broad, heart-shaped leaves emerge bronze, turning green in summer and yellow in autumn. Clusters of purplish-pink, pea-like flowers are borne abundantly on older wood in late April–May, before the leaves emerge, covering the bare branches and even appearing on the trunk. These are followed by deep reddish-purple, flattened, bean-like pods up to 12cm/7”, in autumn. Drought-tolerant. Attractive to bees and other pollinators.

Site: Tolerates exposure
Soil: Any reasonably well-drained soil
Position: Full sun or partial shade
Season of Interest: Spring, summer, autumn
Hardiness: Hardy
Height: 33ft (10m) Spread: 26ft (8m)