Katsura Tree
cercidiphyllum japonicum
Also known as: ["Japanese Katsura","Katsura Tree"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to Japan and China, known for its heart-shaped leaves and sweet-smelling foliage in autumn.
Benefits & Perks
["aesthetic foliage","seasonal color change","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Cercidiphyllales |
| Family: | Cercidiphyllaceae |
| Genus: | Cercidiphyllum |
| Botanical Name: | Cercidiphyllum japonicum |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with protection from strong winds
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"–25–30°C to 35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"4–8"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Well-draining but moisture-retentive.
- Soil Type: Rich, loamy soil with good organic matter and drainage.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually in late winter or early spring before new growth begins.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and remove unwanted growth.
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily, with afternoon shade preferred in hot climates).
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate gradually to direct sunlight to prevent leaf scorch. Protect from intense afternoon sun, especially in hot regions. Outdoor placement is ideal, but ensure filtered light indoors.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
partial shade to full sun
Morning sun is best; provide shade during peak heat; rotate plant for even light exposure.
Watering
every 7–10 days during growing season, less in winter
Water thoroughly until runoff, allow soil to dry slightly between waterings, and avoid waterlogging.
Soil
moist, well-drained, slightly acidic loam
pH: Acidic to neutral (pH 5.5–7.0).
Mulch to retain moisture; avoid compacted soil; ensure good aeration.
Temperature
Prefers cool to moderate temperatures (60–75°F or 15–24°C). Tolerates cold but thrives in mild conditions.
Avoid extreme temperature fluctuations; protect from frost; ensure good air circulation.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Fertilize in spring before new growth; avoid over-fertilizing; water after application.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in early summer or seed propagation in autumn.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take cuttings.
- Apply rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Transplant when rooted.
Best Time: Early summer for cuttings; autumn for seeds.
Environment
High humidity (70–80%), warm temperatures (65–75°F or 18–24°C), and indirect light.
Medium
Peat and perlite mix or sterile potting soil with good drainage.
Hormone
Rooting hormone is recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings root in 4–8 weeks; seed germination takes 1–3 months with stratification.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, misting spray bottle, propagation tray.
Quick Tips
Use healthy, disease-free cuttings; maintain consistent moisture; provide bottom heat for faster rooting.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Thinning cuts to open the canopy; heading cuts to control size.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage airflow.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), sterilizing solution.
Checklist
Sterilize tools; prune dead/diseased wood first; make clean cuts; avoid over-pruning.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before active growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim roots if needed; repot in fresh, well-draining soil with a slightly larger pot.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Necessary to refresh soil and provide space.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot; prepare fresh soil; trim roots if crowded; water after repotting.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure proper drainage; avoid overhead watering.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer, reducing frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Leaf scorch in excessive heat, leaf drop or browning in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may curl, turn brown, or drop. Growth may slow or stop in freezing temperatures.
Solution: Protect with frost cloth or mulch in winter. Avoid planting in exposed, windy areas.
Hot Stress
Wilting, leaf scorch, or premature leaf drop due to excessive heat and sun exposure.
Solution: Provide shade during peak heat, increase watering, and mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after fertilizing; avoid winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a light dose monthly during growing season, avoiding winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCercidiphyllum japonicum is not toxic to cats. Ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild digestive issues due to their high fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Dogs
Non-toxicThe Katsura tree is not considered toxic to dogs. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may lead to mild gastrointestinal upset due to their fibrous nature.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Humans
Non-toxicCercidiphyllum japonicum, commonly known as Katsura tree, is generally considered non-toxic to humans. However, ingestion of large quantities of seeds may cause mild gastrointestinal discomfort due to their high fiber content.
⚠️ Symptoms:
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten in large quantities
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Katsura Tree have any special fragrance?
A: Yes, its leaves emit a sweet, caramel-like scent when they fall in autumn.
Q: How tall does the Katsura Tree grow?
A: It can reach heights of 50–60 feet (15–18 meters) in ideal conditions.
Q: Is the Katsura Tree suitable for small gardens?
A: No, due to its large size, it is best suited for spacious landscapes.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Cercidiphyllaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | partial shade to full sun |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during growi |
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