White Judas Tree Cercis siliquastrum f. albida
ABOUT
Cercis siliquastrum f. albida, commonly known as the white-flowered Judas tree, is a striking ornamental plant known for its distinctive appearance. The most captivating feature of this plant is its abundant, white, pea-like flowers that bloom profusely in spring. These flowers emerge directly from the branches and sometimes even the trunk, covering the entire tree in a spectacular display of white before the leaves fully expand. The heart-shaped leaves that follow the flowering season are equally attractive. They provide a soft, refreshing green canopy throughout the summer. In autumn, the leaves transform, bringing a touch of warm color to the landscape as they shift to yellow before falling. Adding interest at the end of summer and into autumn are the reddish-purple seed pods that hang elegantly from the branches. These pods are elongated and slightly twisted, persisting on the tree well into the winter months, providing an appealing contrast to the tree’s overall appearance when most other foliage has disappeared. The bark of the white-flowered Judas tree adds a subtle charm as well. It is dark and scaly, providing a nice backdrop to the brilliant displays of its flowers and leaves. Overall, the appearance of the white-flowered Judas tree is one that can capture the eye in every season, making it a cherished plant in many gardens and landscapes where its visual appeal can be fully appreciated.
About this plant
NamesSynonyms
White-Flowered Judas Tree, White-Flowered Mediterranean Redbud, Alba Judas Tree, White Eastern Redbud
Common names
Cercis siliquastrum f. albida.
ToxicityTo humans
The plant commonly known as the Judas tree is not widely known to be toxic to humans. However, as with many plants, some individuals may have sensitivities or allergic reactions to parts of it. Generally, there are no severe symptoms of poisoning reported in the literature from ingestion of the Judas tree. Nevertheless, it is always prudent to avoid eating parts of ornamental plants due to potential individual reactions or undocumented toxicities.
To pets
The Judas tree is not widely recognized as being toxic to pets. However, similar to humans, pets can have individual allergies or sensitivities to plant materials. No specific symptoms of poisoning have been widely documented for pets ingesting parts of the Judas tree. Despite the lack of known toxicity, it is advisable to prevent pets from ingesting plant material, as there may be individual cases of adverse reactions that have not been widely reported.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Green
Flower color
White
Height
15 feet (4.57 meters)
Spread
10 feet (3.05 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
7
Native area
Mediterranean
Benefits
General Benefits- Aesthetic Appeal: Adds visual interest to gardens with its unique white flowers and heart-shaped leaves.
- Habitat Support: Provides nectar for bees and other pollinators, supporting local biodiversity.
- Shade Provider: Can offer a moderate amount of shade once fully grown, creating cooler areas in gardens and parks.
- Seasonal Interest: Exhibits a striking floral display in spring, followed by a rich leaf color transformation in autumn.
- Wildlife Friendly: Attracts birds that feed on the seed pods, encouraging wildlife presence in the area.
- Low Maintenance: Generally requires little upkeep once established, making it suitable for busy gardeners.
- Drought Tolerance: Once established, it is relatively drought-tolerant, requiring less watering than more delicate plants.
- Urban Tolerant: Can thrive in urban conditions, dealing well with pollution and confined spaces.
Medical Properties- This plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Judas tree wood can be used for woodworking and turning on a lathe to create small decorative items due to its hard and dense nature.
- The flowers of the Judas tree are edible and can be used in salads or as a garnish, providing a splash of color and a subtle, pea-like flavor.
- In landscape design, the Judas tree's vibrant blossoms make it a popular choice for ornamental purposes in parks and gardens.
- The tree’s branching pattern and silhouette provide an interesting architectural feature in winter gardens when the branches are bare.
- Judas tree can be planted to provide shade in small yards or gardens due to its relatively compact size compared to other shade trees.
- Its hardy nature allows it to be used in urban environments, contributing to the green infrastructure and providing benefits such as habitat for birds.
- The fallen flower petals of the Judas tree create a colorful carpet beneath the tree, which can be aesthetically pleasing in certain landscaped areas.
- Bonsai enthusiasts may choose the Judas tree for its beautiful spring bloom and suitability for the art of bonsai due to its manageable size and attractive foliage.
- The dense foliage of the Judas tree can be used to create privacy screens or hedges in gardens and backyards.
- Because of its deep roots, planting a Judas tree can help prevent soil erosion on slopes and embankments.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Judas tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Judas tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Love and Affection: Cercis siliquastrum f. albida, commonly known as white Judas tree, is often associated with love and affection due to the heart-shaped leaves, which symbolize the care and love one person holds for another.
- Resurrection and Regeneration: The Judas tree is said to be the tree from which Judas Iscariot hanged himself, according to legend, and is often linked to the idea of resurrection and regeneration because it blooms with vibrant flowers even before its leaves appear, suggesting rebirth and new beginnings.
- Hope and Renewal: The early flowering of the white Judas tree, often around Easter, makes it a symbol of hope and renewal, representing the start of a new growth cycle and the promise of spring.
- Mysticism and Connection: With its biblical association, the white Judas tree is also seen as a bridge between the earthly and the divine, with its beautiful flowers representing a mystical connection to the spiritual world.
- Beauty and Elegance: The delicate white blossoms of the Judas tree are symbols of beauty and elegance, often reflecting the fine and graceful aspects of nature, life, and personal character.
WaterThe Judas tree prefers consistent moisture, especially during the first few growing seasons to establish a deep, extensive root system. Water the tree deeply, providing about 1 to 1.5 inches of water per week during dry periods. Avoid frequent shallow watering, as it won't reach the deeper roots. During the winter, you can reduce the amount of water as the tree's growth slows down. Ensure the soil has good drainage to prevent waterlogging, which can lead to root rot. It's best to water this tree using a drip or soaker hose system to provide a slow, steady supply of water directly to the root zone without over-saturating the soil.
LightThe Judas tree thrives in full sun to partial shade conditions, with at least six hours of direct sunlight each day for optimal growth. Planting in a location that provides morning sunlight with some afternoon shade is ideal, especially in hotter climates. Avoid deeply shaded areas as this can reduce blooming and lead to poor growth.
TemperatureThe Judas tree is hardy and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but prefers a climate with temperatures between 50°F and 85°F for optimal growth. It can survive minimum winter temperatures down to about -10°F to 0°F. Ensure that the planting site is protected from harsh winter winds to minimize risk of damage.
PruningPruning the Judas tree should be done to remove dead or diseased branches, to shape the tree, and to promote a strong structure. Pruning is best performed in late winter or early spring before new growth begins. Remove any suckers or water sprouts and thin out crowded branches to allow light and air to penetrate the canopy, which helps maintain tree health. It's generally not necessary to prune this tree annually, but rather as needed to maintain its form and health.
CleaningAs needed
SoilJudas tree thrives in well-drained soil with a neutral to slightly alkaline pH level; a mix of loam, sand, and compost is ideal. Ensure proper aeration for root health.
RepottingJudas tree is typically a landscape plant and doesn't need repotting; young trees may require transplanting every few years until mature.
Humidity & MistingJudas tree tolerates a wide range of humidity levels and does not have specific humidity requirements; normal outdoor conditions are typically suitable.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Ensure bright light, well-draining soil, and space for growth.
Outdoor
Plant in full sun to partial shade, well-draining soil, water regularly.
Hardiness zone
6-9 USDA
Life cycleCercis siliquastrum f. albida, also known as the white-flowering form of the Judas tree, begins its life as a seed, which after stratification, germinates in the spring. The seedling grows into a young plant, establishing a root system and producing its distinctive heart-shaped leaves. Once the plant reaches maturity, which can take several years, it begins its reproductive phase, flowering in early spring with clusters of white blooms before the leaves fully emerge. Pollination occurs via insects, and following flowering, the plant produces flat, bean-like seed pods that mature by autumn. These pods release seeds, which can remain dormant in the soil until conditions trigger germination in subsequent seasons. The Judas tree can live for many decades, repeating its growth and reproductive cycle annually.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring to Early Summer
Propogation: The most popular method to propagate the plant known commonly as "Judas tree" or Cercis siliquastrum is via seed. The best time to sow Judas tree seeds is in the fall, taking advantage of the natural stratification period provided by winter. To propagate by seed, collect the pods after they dry on the tree but before they open. The seeds need to be soaked in warm water for 24 hours to soften the hard outer shell. Following the soaking, seeds are sown in a seed-starting mix, barely covered with soil. They should then be placed in a cold frame or a sheltered outdoor spot over winter, where they can get a period of cold stratification. Come spring, as temperatures rise, the seeds will germinate and can eventually be transplanted into individual pots.
