Cercis siliquastrum aka Judastree

Cercis siliquastrum is known as Judas tree or Mediterranean redbud. This small, deciduous tree belongs to the bean family. Its native range runs from southern Europe into western Asia. It grows in woods and on warm, stony slopes. Several trunks often support a rounded crown. Garden trees often reach 15–25 feet (4.6–7.6 metres) tall and wide. Some sources give larger sizes. Oregon State reports heights of 30 feet (9.1 metres). RHS gives an upper height of 39 feet (12 metres).

The dark gray bark develops furrows as the tree ages. Its simple leaves grow in an alternate pattern. Each leaf has a broad heart shape and smooth edges. The tip may be rounded or have a small notch. New leaves show bronze-red tones before turning deep green. In fall, they turn yellow or bronze before dropping. The broad leaves give the crown a full summer cover.

Pea-shaped flowers open in March and April, before the leaves. Their colors range from pink-purple to magenta. Small groups line older branches and stems. Flowers may also grow straight from the trunk. Bees visit for nectar, and the blooms attract butterflies. Flat purple seedpods follow the flowers and ripen in late summer. Pods can stay on the tree well into winter. Birds eat the seeds.

Grow this tree in sun or partial shade. It needs soil that drains well and avoids standing water. RHS lists clay, chalk, loam, and sand as suitable soils. It also accepts acid, neutral, and alkaline soil. Steady moisture and moderate soil fertility support good growth. Established trees can tolerate drought. Plant young trees where they can stay, since transplanting is difficult. A sheltered site helps near the colder edge of its range. Most sources place it within USDA zones 6–9. RHS rates its UK hardiness as H5.

Use it alone, in groups, or along woodland edges. It also suits lawns, shrub borders, patios, and street plantings. The hard wood has uses in veneer work. Canker can cause serious trouble. Wilt, dieback, mildew, blight, coral spot, and leaf spots may occur. Pests include beetles, borers, caterpillars, leafhoppers, scale, webworms, and whiteflies. Remove dead branches and maintain good growth to help tree health. Flowers and seedpods are edible raw. The flowers have a sweet, tart taste. People also pickle the buds for use as a condiment. Plants For A Future lists no known hazards.