

How to identify Cercis chingii (Cercis chingii)
Cercis chingii is a deciduous tree with a multistemmed habit, typically growing to about 8-12 feet (2.4-3.7 meters) tall. Its leaves are heart-shaped with a smooth margin and a glossy, green surface. In spring, cercis chingii produces clusters of small, purple-pink flowers that bloom directly on the branches before the leaves emerge. The flowers give way to flat, bean-like seed pods. The bark is smooth, providing a subtle texture to the landscape.
Heart-shaped, glossy green leaves with smooth margins, reaching 4 inches (10 cm).
Clusters of rosy purple flowers, 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter, symmetrical petals.
Distinctive leathery legume pods, twisted, 2-3 inches (5-7.5 cm) long, robust.
Densely branched stem, multi-stemmed, greyish-brown color, 1 inch (2.5 cm) diameter.
Smooth bark, providing subtle texture, aiding in plant recognition and landscape appeal.
The leaves of cercis chingii are initially tinted red/purple and transition to a dark green upon opening. They reach up to 4 inches (10 cm) in length and are alternate, simple leaves with a slightly leathery texture. Each leaf features 5 principal veins, prominently visible on the underside, and sparse hairs along the veins and vein axils.
Cercis chingii bears dense clusters of rosy purple flowers, each approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The blossoms form in tight bunches, creating a striking display of vibrant color. Each flower consists of five petals that are arranged symmetrically, providing a delicate yet robust appearance. These flowers are often amongst the earliest to bloom in spring, signaling the season's arrival with their bright and cheerful hues. No notable scent is commonly associated with these blooms.
The stem of cercis chingii is densely branched with a multi-stemmed structure. It features a smooth texture and displays a greyish-brown color. The stems are moderately thick, typically reaching up to 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. The branching pattern is intricate, enhancing the dense appearance of the plant. Noteworthy for its resilience, the stem's robust nature supports the plant's overall growth and stability.
The fruit of cercis chingii is characterized by its distinctive leathery legume pods that typically exhibit a twisted form. These pods are robust and envelop seeds in a row within their protective casing. As they mature, the fruit may change in color, finishing with a brownish tone that blends with the plant's natural setting. The texture of the pods is notably tough, which aids in shielding the seeds from environmental elements. Their length is generally about 2 to 3 inches (5 to 7.5 cm), making them relatively conspicuous against the foliage. These key features are essential for recognizing the fruit of cercis chingii.
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Scientific Classification of Cercis chingii