Katsura tree

* Common name: Katsura tree

* Botanical name: Cercidiphyllum japonicum

* What it is: A large, nicely shaped, broad pyramidal deciduous shade tree with heart-shaped leaves that start out burgundy/purplish-green in spring, then turn green in summer, then turn a burnt-orange to yellow in fall. Fallen leaves smell like burnt sugar when crushed. Moderate growth rate.

* Size: 40 to 50 feet tall and 25 to 30 feet wide in 20-25 years.

* Where to use: A diverse alternative to maples and oaks in mid-sized to large yards. Grows naturally as an understory tree, so a partly shaded site is ideal. Will grow in full sun if kept consistently damp in the first 3 or 4 years until the roots establish. Then it’s very low care.

* Care: Prune off excessive, crossing or “directionally challenged” branches to train the tree in its youth. Then remove lower limbs as desired as the tree ages. Fertilizer usually isn’t needed.

* Great partner: Underplant with barrenwort, sweetbox, hosta and/or liriope. Interplant this groundcover with daffodils for spring color.