

How to identify Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)
Katsura tree, also known as Japanese Judas Tree, Weeping Katsura Tree
Katsura tree reveals its unique charm with heart-shaped, opposite leaves that whisper the approach of autumn through their fragrant, apricot-yellow fall foliage. This deciduous tree is well-regarded for the aromatic allure of its leaves as seasons change. The structure forms part of the landscape with a commanding presence, counted among the larger hardwoods one might encounter.
Heart-shaped, opposite leaves signal autumn with apricot-yellow foliage.
Thin, brown stems exhibit dense branching and smooth texture.
Small, wind-pollinated flowers in red and green hues.
Fruit consists of narrow pods with winged seeds for wind dispersal.
Bark transitions from smooth to shaggy, grey-brown with age.
The leaves of katsura tree are simple and alternately arranged on short shoots. They are broadly heart-shaped or kidney-shaped, measuring 2-4 inches (5-10 cm) in length. The leaves exhibit a palmately webbed vein pattern and have crenate, entire, or finely serrate margins. New leaves emerge in shades of reddish-bronze-purple, transitioning to blue-green in the summer, and turning yellow to apricot in the fall. This vibrant seasonal color change adds to the leaf's distinctive characteristics.
The flowers of katsura tree are small and appear in early spring for about a week. Male flowers, characterized by their red hue, consist of a calyx and numerous stamens. Female flowers are green and feature 4 winged sepals and 4-6 carpels. These dioecious flowers exhibit a wind-pollination mechanism with no notable scent. Both flower types measure roughly 0.2 inches (5 mm) in size, contributing to the tree's reproductive system without drawing significant visual attention.
The stems of katsura tree are thin and brown, often exhibiting a very branched structure. They can either be single or multi-trunked, providing a distinctive appearance. The texture is smooth, making it easily distinguishable, and the branching typically results in a dense, intricate network. The thickness of the stems ranges from slender to moderately robust, suitable for supporting the plant's foliage. Key identifying features include their brown color and extensive branching pattern.
The fruit of katsura tree consists of a congregation of 2-4 small, narrow pods held together on a pedicel. Each pod houses numerous flattened, winged seeds, exhibiting a delicate, papery texture. The coloration transitions to a mature state in autumn, at which point the pods will split open and gradually release their seeds through the autumn and winter months. The seeds themselves are minute, providing an efficient means for dispersal by the wind.
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Scientific Classification of Katsura tree