TreesCercis siliquastrum
Judas Tree
The Judas tree is a spectacular small tree that bears bright pink flowers directly on the bare branches and even the trunk in April and May — a rare phenomenon called cauliflory. After flowering, heart-shaped blue-green leaves appear, giving the tree a Mediterranean character. The Judas tree slowly develops into a graceful, multi-stemmed specimen.
Characteristics
- Sun
- Full sun
- Water
- Low
- Height
- 400–800 cm
- Spread
- 400–700 cm
- Hardiness zone
- 6–9
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Evergreen
- No
- Flower colors
- pink
- Wildlife value
- bees
Bloom period
Care guide
Plant in full sun in a warm, sheltered spot in well-drained soil. Once established, the Judas tree is drought-tolerant but needs regular watering in the first years. Avoid heavy clay. Protect young trees in their first winters with fleece during severe frost.
Pruning tips
Prune as little as possible — the Judas tree tolerates pruning poorly and recovers slowly. Only remove dead wood and crossing branches in late spring after flowering. Formative pruning is rarely needed thanks to the naturally graceful growth habit.
Good companions
ShrubsLavandula angustifolia
English Lavender
Lavender is a beloved herb with aromatic silver-green foliage and purple-blue flower spikes. This evergreen plant blooms profusely from June to August and is remarkably drought-tolerant, attracting butterflies and bees to the garden.
PerennialsNepeta × faassenii
Catmint
Catmint is a tough border plant with grey-green, aromatic foliage and soft blue flower plumes. It blooms from May to September, making it one of the longest-flowering perennials. Bees love the flowers and cats are drawn to the leaves.
PerennialsIris germanica
Bearded Iris
The bearded iris is a stately perennial with sword-shaped grey-green leaves and elegant, multi-coloured flowers. In May and June, striking blooms appear in purple, blue, or yellow, often with a characteristic 'beard' on the drooping petals. The plant is perfect for formal borders or along pathways.