Cercidiphyllum japonicum f. pendulum Amazing Grace - Katsura tree

Cercidiphyllum japonicum f. pendulum 'Amazing Grace' is a variety of Caramel Tree with a very pronounced weeping habit. It is a small, wide tree with the appearance of a weeping willow, whose foliage changes colour throughout the seasons, displaying shimmering shades in autumn. It is during leaf fall that the caramel tree emits a delightful scent of caramel with a hint of cinnamon.

Cercidiphyllum belongs to the Cercidiphyllaceae family, which includes only one species, Cercidiphyllum japonicum or Katsura. They are deciduous trees native to mountainous regions of Japan and China, characterised by a fork-shaped trunk, horizontally spreading branches, and heart-shaped leaves. In our gardens, Cercidiphyllum japonicum forms a slender tree, reaching a height of 12m, while in its native lands, it can grow up to 40m. It is a dioecious plant: there are male and female trees.

Cercidiphyllum japonicum 'Amazing Grace' is a horticultural variety obtained by American breeder Dan Hinkley in 2005, named by Bob Hill from Louisville, Kentucky (USA). It is a small, slow-growing caramel tree. Ultimately, it usually reaches a height of 4m with a spread of 4.25m, although it can exceptionally grow up to 6m in height. Its uniqueness lies in its wide and very pronounced weeping habit. This variety has branches and long branches that droop towards the ground. Together, they form a spreading, semi-open crown, supported by a trunk with grey bark that is initially smooth but exfoliates into strips with age. During the growing season, the trunk is completely hidden by the foliage in mature specimens. The foliage changes colour throughout the seasons. It consists of rounded leaves with slightly wavy edges, measuring 5 to 8cm in length. They start off bronze, quickly turn green, and eventually transition to shades of yellow and orange in autumn. Fallen leaves release delicious aromas of caramel or gingerbread. Between March and April, Cercidiphyllum is adorned with small, dull red flowers that are quite insignificant but fragrant. This flowering is followed by fruiting only on female trees, as the caramel tree is dioecious. The fruits are small, green-brown pods that contain winged seeds.

The 'Amazing Grace' Caramel Tree prefers moist, slightly acidic soils where its growth is faster and its autumn colours are more vibrant. Plant it as a solitary specimen in light, humus-bearing soil that is deeply loosened and well-drained, sheltered from cold and drying winds. Ideally planted near a body of water, this weeping variety will create an exceptional focal point. Planted in the middle of a lawn, this charming little tree will bring a romantic touch to the landscape. Paired with Japanese Maple 'Dissectum Atropurpureum', Persian Ironwood 'Bella', or Golden Catalpa, it will reveal its full beauty in a symphony of colours.