Katsura Tree Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping'
ABOUT
The Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping', commonly known as the Katsura tree, is characterized by its graceful weeping habit, making it a picturesque addition to any garden. This elegant tree boasts a cascade of heart-shaped leaves that exhibit a unique texture and pattern. These leaves emerge with a reddish-purple color in the spring, before transitioning to a fresh, vibrant green as they mature. The interesting foliage does not stop there; come fall, the Katsura tree puts on a spectacular display when the leaves change again, this time to brilliant shades of yellow, orange, and red, providing a vibrant splash of autumn color. Aside from its colorful seasonal foliage, one of the most distinctive features of the Katsura tree is its fragrance. During the fall, when the leaves begin to drop, they give off a sweet scent that is often likened to burnt sugar or cotton candy, adding an olfactory delight to the visual spectacle. The tree's branches drape gracefully towards the ground, giving the 'Morioka Weeping' Katsura a delicate and soft appearance. Its bark is another point of interest; with age, the bark develops furrows and takes on a somewhat shaggy texture, adding another layer of contrast to the smooth leaves and weeping form. Overall, the Katsura tree's cascading branches, heart-shaped leaves, bewitching seasonal colors, and sweet-smelling autumn leaves make it a captivating specimen for a garden where aesthetic appeal through all seasons is desired.
About this plant
NamesFamily
Cercidiphyllaceae.
Synonyms
Katsura Tree, Japanese Judas Tree.
Common names
Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping'.
ToxicityTo humans
Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping') is generally considered non-toxic to humans. There is no substantial evidence to suggest that ingesting parts of this plant would lead to poisoning or any adverse health effects. Therefore, accidental ingestion should not cause concern for toxicity in humans.
To pets
Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping') is not known to be toxic to pets. It is not listed on common toxic plant databases, and there are no well-documented cases of poisoning in pets from this plant. As such, if a pet were to ingest parts of this katsura tree, it is not expected to experience toxic effects or symptoms of poisoning as a result.
CharacteristicsLife cycle
Perennials
Foliage type
Deciduous
Color of leaves
Varies
Height
15-25 feet (4.6-7.6 meters)
Spread
6-10 feet (1.8-3 meters)
Plant type
Tree
Hardiness zones
4-8
Native area
Japan China
Benefits
General Benefits- Ornamental Appeal: The 'Morioka Weeping' Katsura tree has a unique weeping form that adds an artistic touch to landscapes.
- Seasonal Interest: It is known for its appealing heart-shaped leaves which change colors with the seasons, offering a delightful display throughout the year.
- Shade Provider: This tree can offer a cooling canopy, which is ideal for creating shaded areas in gardens and parks.
- Wildlife Habitat: It can serve as habitat and food source for various species of birds and insects.
- Fall Fragrance: The tree is famous for emitting a sweet scent reminiscent of caramel or cotton candy as the leaves turn in the fall.
- Low Maintenance: Katsura tree is relatively easy to care for once established, requiring minimal pruning and upkeep.
- Urban Tolerant: It can adapt to urban environments and is capable of handling some levels of pollution.
Medical PropertiesThis plant is not used for medical purposes.
Air-purifying QualitiesThis plant is not specifically known for air purifying qualities.
Other Uses- Katsura tree branches are pliable and can be used in weaving or as natural craft materials, especially in creating intricate garden trellises.
- The fine grain of Katsura wood lends itself well to woodworking and the production of small decorative objects such as jewelry boxes or picture frames.
- The leaves of the Katsura tree undergo a dramatic color change, and when collected in fall, they can be pressed and used in art for their distinctive heart shape and color patterns.
- During the fall, dried leaves of the Katsura tree produce a sweet smell reminiscent of brown sugar or cotton candy, which can be used to enhance the sensory appeal of outdoor spaces.
- The Katsura tree's natural resistance to pests makes it suitable for integrating into permaculture designs as a pest management strategy.
- The shade provided by the Katsura tree's weeping canopy can create a comfortable microclimate, ideal for hosting shade-loving understory plants in garden designs.
- Its unique weeping form is often used as a focal point in landscape photography and can be a subject for photography classes or workshops.
- Katsura leaves can be used as a natural dye for fabrics, giving a soft yellow or brown color depending on the mordant used.
- The furrowed bark of mature trees could be used in casting molds for artistic and decorative concrete or plaster work.
- As a culturally significant tree in Japan, the Katsura tree can be included in educational programs about Japanese gardening techniques and aesthetics.
Interesting Facts
Feng ShuiThe Katsura tree is not used in Feng Shui practice.
Zodiac Sign CompitabilityThe Katsura tree is not used in astrology practice.
Plant Symbolism- Change and Transformation - The Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping') is known for its heart-shaped leaves that change colors with the seasons, symbolizing the ever-changing nature of life and the ability to transform.
- Memory and Reminiscence - As the leaves turn and release a sweet scent reminiscent of burnt sugar or cotton candy, the Katsura tree is often associated with nostalgia and the sweet memories of one's past.
- Ephemeral Beauty - The delicate weeping form and the transient vivid fall color of the leaves reflect the beauty of things that are temporary and the value of appreciating fleeting moments.
- Grace and Elegance - The elegant weeping branches of the Katsura tree signify grace and poise, often inspiring a sense of peacefulness and composure in a garden setting.
WaterKatsura trees, including the 'Morioka Weeping', prefer moist, well-drained soil and should be watered regularly, especially during dry spells. For young trees, water them deeply with 1 to 2 gallons once a week. Mature trees will benefit from a similar deep watering but can be done every two to three weeks, depending on rainfall and soil conditions. Adjust watering during drought and intense heat, aiming to keep the soil consistently moist but not soggy.
LightThe 'Morioka Weeping' Katsura tree thrives best in full sun to partial shade conditions. It should be planted where it receives at least four to six hours of direct sunlight per day, avoiding areas that are excessively hot and sunny to prevent leaf scorch. Dappled sunlight under the canopy of taller trees is also an appropriate location for this cultivar, as it can promote healthy growth and leaf color.
TemperatureThe 'Morioka Weeping' Katsura tree can withstand a range of temperatures, flourishing in USDA hardiness zones 4 through 8. It can survive minimum temperatures down to approximately -30°F and is comfortable in summer temperatures up to around 85°F. Ideally, it should be grown in environments where the temperature is consistently between 60°F and 75°F for the best growth and foliage development.
PruningPruning the 'Morioka Weeping' Katsura tree is primarily to maintain shape and remove any dead or damaged branches. Prune during dormancy in late winter or early spring before new growth starts. It's recommended to do light pruning annually to manage the weeping form and encourage a strong structure. Heavy pruning should be avoided as it can spoil the natural shape of the tree.
CleaningAs needed
SoilKatsura Tree prefers a well-draining soil mix rich in organic matter, such as a combination of loam, peat moss, and perlite. It thrives in slightly acidic to neutral pH, ranging from 5.5 to 7.5.
RepottingThe Katsura Tree generally doesn't require frequent repotting and should only be repotted every 3-5 years, or when it outgrows its current container.
Humidity & MistingKatsura Tree benefits from moderate to high humidity levels but is adaptable and can also tolerate lower humidity environments.
Suitable locationsIndoor
Grow Katsura Trees indoors with bright, indirect light and room to grow.
Outdoor
Place Katsura Trees in a sheltered spot with moist, fertile soil.
Hardiness zone
4-8 USDA
Life cycleKatsura Tree 'Morioka Weeping' begins its life cycle as a seed, which after a period of dormancy, typically requires stratification to break its dormancy and promote germination. Upon germination, the seedling emerges, developing into a young plant with a distinctive heart-shaped leaves that rapidly grow. As it matures, the tree exhibits a weeping form, with branches that arch downwards, and leaves that transition from reddish-purple when young to a deep blue-green in summer, and finally to a spectacular display of yellow, orange, and apricot tones in the fall. Throughout its life, the Katsura Tree 'Morioka Weeping' requires adequate water, particularly as it establishes its root system and develops its sprawling canopy. Reproduction occurs as the tree reaches maturity, with small flowers that are generally not showy, leading to the production of seeds that continue the cycle. Over many years, the Katsura Tree 'Morioka Weeping' can reach remarkable sizes and ages, with some specimens living for over a century under optimal conditions.
PropogationPropogation time
Spring-Early Summer
The Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Morioka Weeping', commonly known as Katsura Tree, is generally propagated by grafting. Grafting is the most popular method of propagation for this particular cultivar because it allows for the exact characteristics of 'Morioka Weeping' to be reproduced in new plants. This should be undertaken in late winter or early spring when the stock plants are still dormant. The process involves taking a healthy scion, which is a cutting from the Katsura Tree with a few buds, and joining it to a rootstock of another Cercidiphyllum plant. The scion is cut at an angle, typically matching a cut made on the rootstock, and the two are joined together and firmly secured. The grafted point is then sealed with grafting wax or similar material to prevent drying out and protect from disease while the graft union heals and the two parts grow together.
