Cercis siliquastrum (Pink Judas Redbud) is a small deciduous tree that is native to southern Europe and western Asia. It’s a stunning ornamental, producing hundreds of pink and crimson flowers during spring. The flowers are edible and are delicious in salads. They can begin to flower in their second season.
Other common names include Mediterranean Redbud, Judas Tree, or Love Tree. Its native to the Mediterranean region and the flower petals have been shared as a symbol of love. The term Judas comes from the bible and the belief that Judas Iscariot hung himself from a tree of this species.
Although Judas can tolerate cold conditions, its dense flower clusters are reduced in colder regions.
Growth
Cercis siliquastrum is a beautiful flowering tree that reach heights of up to 12 metres (39 feet). Judas blossoms uniquely appear before the leaves and grow in dense clusters.
Flowers can appear on trees that are one year old and grow off the trunk and branches. Each blossom has five free petals that combine with fused petals. The petals are edible and apparently have a sweet-acidic taste. The trees produce flat pods that hang vertically and contain between 20-50 seeds each.
Judas trees have an unusual relationship with bacteria in the soil. Together they produce nitrogen that is emitted into the atmosphere which can benefit the plants nearby.
Canker is a significant disease problem for Judas tees along with numerous pests. Keep the tree vigorous by watering and fertilizing, and by pruning out dead branches.
Note: Germination instructions can be found in the ‘Germination Instructions Tab’ below. Upon purchase you will receive these detailed instructions via email so that you have a permanent record.
FAMILY:
Fabaceae
CLIMATE:
Temperate – Tropical
TEMPERATURE RANGE:
-15 to 35°C / 5 to 95°F
SOIL TYPE:
Soil must be well-draining.
LOCATION:
Full Sun – Part Shade
HEIGHT:
Up to 12 metres (39 feet)
WIDTH:
Up to 10 metres (33 feet)
pH:
6.0-7.0
GROWTH TYPE:
Deciduous
WATER REQUIREMENTS:
Medium
POLLINATION:
Bees
MATURITY:
3-5 years
GERMINATION RATES:
55-70%
GERMINATION TIME:
Cold stratification for 2 months, post sowing germination from 1-3 weeks.
GERMINATION DIFFICULTY:
Medium
SEEDS PER GRAM:
Approximately 40
MEDICINAL QUALITIES:
Yes
WEED POTENTIAL:
No
FACTS ABOUT CERCIS SILIQUASTRUM (Pink Judas Redbud)
The common name of Judas tree is in reference to the claim that Judas Iscariot reportedly hung himself from a Cercis siliquastrum tree.
Judas trees produce a hard wood with an attractive grain and is used in veneers.
This species is also widely grown as a Bonsai plant.
