Cercis siliquastrum

Cercis siliquastrum, the Judas tree, is a deciduous tree of the Fabaceae family native to the Mediterranean, widely grown for its ornamental flowers and decorative foliage.

Characteristics
A medium sized tree reaching 5-12 m, with a broad, rounded crown, spreading branches and dark grey to brown bark. The leaves are heart to kidney shaped, glossy dark green above and paler beneath, 7-12 cm long, turning yellow in autumn. The flowering is its great feature: in April, before the leaves, the branches and trunk are covered with clusters of bright pink-purple pea flowers, followed by flat reddish pods that persist into winter.

Growing and care
Full sun and well drained soil, including poor and calcareous ground; very drought and heat tolerant once established, and it dislikes being transplanted when large. Prune lightly after flowering.

Uses
A spring flowering specimen for gardens of any size, courtyards, avenues and Mediterranean schemes, planted singly or in groups.