Like all Judas trees, the Chinese Judas tree belongs to the legume family, but remains significantly smaller than the other species. Instead of reaching heights of up to six meters (and more), this species grows more like a shrub up to a height of around 250 centimeters. But this Judas tree also impresses with its numerous dark pink flowers, which sprout mainly from the old wood and the trunk and which appear in the months of April and May before the leaves emerge. However, this rather small species is also more sensitive to winter weather conditions and requires sufficient protection.
Is the Chinese Judas tree hardy?
The Chinese Judas tree is only partially hardy and requires protection, especially for young plants. A thick layer of brushwood, leaves or straw over the root area and fleece around the trunk and crown help with winter hardiness. A sunny, wind-protected location is also advantageous.
Protecting the Chinese Judas tree in winter
The younger the Chinese Judas tree, the more sensitive it is and must be protected accordingly - this especially applies to specimens that are less than four years old. For this purpose, you should first cover the root area with a thick layer of brushwood (fir or spruce brushwood is particularly suitable) as well as leaves and/or straw. Judas trees are shallow-rooted, which is why their roots, which grow close to the ground, are particularly at risk. Only bark mulch should not be used as it makes the soil acidic. In very cold winters you can also pack the trunk and crown or the entire bush in fleece (€12.00 on Amazon).
Selecting the right location increases winter hardiness
The principle also applies that the sunnier and more sheltered the location, the better the Chinese Judas tree can survive the winter. Judas trees love the sun and warmth and should therefore be given a place in full sun and protected from wind, if possible near a house wall. Wind can be particularly problematic in winter as it dries and cools the plant unnecessarily. A south-facing location is best.
Overwintering the Chinese Judas tree in a pot
Due to its comparatively small size, the Chinese Judas tree can be easily cultivated in a pot and can easily be brought into the house in bad weather conditions. Since it is also a deciduous tree, you can overwinter the Judas tree in either a cool or dark place. The optimal temperatures for frost-free wintering are between zero and eight degrees Celsius. However, it shouldn't get warmer than 10 degrees Celsius.
Tip
Some varieties of the Canadian Judas tree (Cercis canadensis) are less sensitive to cold and frosty temperatures, which is why - if winter hardiness is important to you - you should choose this over the Chinese one.
