About this tree
Native to Japan and China, Cercidiphyllum japonicum is a deciduous tree known for its heart-shaped leaves and sweet scent in autumn. It can reach heights of 15–20 m in ideal conditions, with a broad, graceful form. The foliage emerges reddish-purple in spring, matures to soft green in summer, and turns brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and pink in autumn. The fallen leaves release a scent reminiscent of burnt sugar or caramel, hence its German name “Kuchenbaum” (cake tree). This scent does in fact result from the chemical maltol, which is also found in caramelized sugar and baked good. Katsura is dioecious, with male and female flowers appearing on separate trees in early spring; these blossoms are small and not particularly showy but do support early pollinators. While it does not produce nuts or fruits of interest to wildlife, its dense canopy offers shelter to birds, and the leaf litter supports soil invertebrates. Katsura prefers moist, well-drained soil and does best in full sun to partial shade. It is often used as a specimen tree in parks or large gardens due to its elegant shape and seasonal interest.