Katsura Tree

Cercidiphyllum japonicum

Cercidiphyllaceae · broadleaf deciduous tree · introduced

Last updated

Katsura tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum, Cercidiphyllaceae) is a moderate-growing deciduous tree from Japan and China, reaching 40 to 60 feet in cultivation (up to 100 feet in the wild). It develops a pyramidal crown when young. Rounded, heart-shaped leaves (5 to 10 centimeters, resembling those of Cercis) emerge purplish-tan, mature to bluish-green, and turn soft apricot-orange in fall. The species is dioecious, with inconspicuous flowers appearing before leaves in spring.

Katsura tree grows in sun to part shade on moist soils (pH 5.5 to 6.5) with moderate water needs, hardy in Zones 4b to 8b. It tolerates clay soil. Fall color is best in acidic soils. The tree emits a distinctive light caramel scent during leaf fall. Supplemental watering helps prevent leaf scorch, and bark splitting or sun scald may occur on exposed trunks. Spring night frosts can deform young leaves. Maintenance is low. No significant pest or disease issues are documented. Cultivars include 'Amazing Grace' (weeping, 30 feet) and 'Red Fox' (purple-leaved, 20 feet).

Plant Profile

Size & Form

Height
50 ft
Spread
30-50 ft
Growth Rate
Moderate

Site Requirements

Light
Sun to Part Shade
Soil Drainage
Moist
Soil pH
5.5–6.5
Water
Moderate
Drought Tolerance
Low
Hardiness
Zones 4b–8b

Ornamental Interest

Bloom Time
March to April
Fall Color
Yellow, orange
Origin
Japan, China

Field Observations

Katsura Tree fruit development
Katsura Tree: Fruit development
May 30, 2026 · Bellevue

Phenological Calendar

As of June 4, 2026, Puget Sound stations range from 2458.5 to 2700.8 GDD₃₂. Katsura Tree typically reaches fruit development at 7078 GDD₃₂, predicted around Nov 11.

Regional Season Tracker

GDD₃₂ accumulation across 7 Puget Sound stations · as of Jun 4, 2026
Station GDD₃₂ Current Stage Next To Go
Issaquah / East King 2,701 Pre-season Fruit development 4,377
Kent / Auburn 2,695 Pre-season Fruit development 4,383
Seattle / UW 2,637 Pre-season Fruit development 4,441
Olympia / Tumwater 2,598 Pre-season Fruit development 4,480
Tacoma / Puyallup 2,564 Pre-season Fruit development 4,514
Bellingham / Whatcom 2,560 Pre-season Fruit development 4,518
Sequim / Rain Shadow 2,459 Pre-season Fruit development 4,620
View full calendar (1 stages)
Stage GDD32 Typical Window
○ Fruit development BBCH 73 NEXT 7078 Observed — est. Nov 11 (avg)

Source: Field observation, Bellevue, WA, 2026-05-30 About GDD₃₂ →

Season tracker for Kent / Auburn as of Jun 4, 2026. Predicted dates use 16-day weather forecast through Jun 20, 2026, then climate normals.

Cultivars (2)
'Amazing Grace'
Common name: Amazing Grace Weeping Katsura Tree; Mature height: 30 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
'Red Fox'
Common name: Red Fox Katsura; Mature height: 20 ft
Hardy to USDA Zone 4
Data Maturity
Structured Multiple sources. Expert review underway.