Katsura Tree (Cercidiphyllum japonicum)
Cercidiphyllum japonicum · Cercidiphyllaceae (Katsura family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Cordate to suborbicular (heart-shaped to nearly round) with a rounded base and an abruptly pointed tip.
Margin
Crenate-serrate (finely rounded to sharp teeth along the edge)
Arrangement
Opposite to sub-opposite along the twig, emerging on short spur shoots.
Venation
Palmate venation radiating outward from the base, featuring prominent yellowish veins.
Key Features
Distinctively heart-shaped to round leaves with fine crenate margins, opposite arrangement on short spur shoots, palmate venation, and the characteristic sweet cotton-candy aroma of falling autumn leaves.
Description
The Katsura tree is a graceful, often multi-stemmed deciduous tree known for its delicate heart-shaped leaves and pyramidal form when young, maturing into a broad, rounded canopy. In autumn, the foliage turns a stunning array of yellow, orange, and deep red, famously releasing a distinct, sweet fragrance reminiscent of burnt brown sugar or cotton candy as the leaves dry.
Habitat
Found naturally in moist, rich valleys, deciduous forests, and along stream banks, preferring well-drained, acidic to neutral soils and full sun to partial shade.
Native Range
Native to eastern Asia, specifically China and Japan; widely cultivated as an ornamental shade tree in temperate regions across North America and Europe.