Description
Cercis silaquastrum
Hardy deciduous nitrogen fixing tree to 12m, with a rounded crown and a spread of up to 10m. Extremely ornamental tree with a prolific display of stunning purple flowers appearing in spring directly on the branches of one year old wood and older, and even along the trunk. The attractive heart-shaped leaves start to appear after the flowers. The flowers are edible raw or pickled, and are also highly attractive to bees. They are followed by pendulant reddish-purple seedpods which are also very ornamental, often hanging on the tree long into winter. Some sources say the seed can be eaten raw. Suitable for a range of soil types and full sun or part shade. Relatively drought hardy but some moisture or part shade preferred in areas with hot summers.
PB5 Approx height 50-90cm Certified Organic Plant
