Katsura
Cercidiphyllum japonicum
Learn about the katsura including when and why it was planted, how to identify it, and where to find it on campus.
Tree Facts
Family: Cercidiphyllaceae
Type
Deciduous
Fall color
Size
Medium (25-50 feet)
Traits
- Egg-shaped leaves that are 2-4 inches long
- Tends to grow upright
- Soft, white wood
- No known serious susceptibilities
Native Range
- Japan
- Southern central China
Story of the Tree
A mature grove of katsura trees is found on the upper level of the north side of Office Building 2 (OB2) on East Campus. They were planted here to soften the concrete, blocky architecture, provide shade, and create a natural canopy for this OB2 entrance.
Katsura trees flourished 1.8 million years ago in North America and Europe but went nearly extinct on both continents after the Ice Age. This tree is now an endangered species in its native range.
