Cercidiphyllum Japonicum (Katsura tree or Caramel tree)

A round-headed deciduous tree to 20metres. Masses of tiny pinkish flowers on bare branches in Spring. Red flushed heart-shaped green leaves turn flaming red and orange in autumn. The fallen leaves emit a sweet caramelly, sugary, biscuity scent when disturbed.

In their native China and Japan, they grow in forest edges and wooded river margins. A shallow rooted tree, happy on any soil, best in south and west facing positions. Germinated seedlings can sometimes be found on bare soil around the tree.

N.B. When clipping several plants with the same tool, have a bucket containing a 5% bleach solution and swish your blades around for 30 seconds between plants to sterilise them. This will help avoid the chance of cross contamination of disease.

As with all woody plants, plant high, exposing as much of the taper at the base of the trunk as possible. Allowing soil to accumulate round the base of a tree can be fatal. Keep very well watered when first planted.