Common Name: Chinese Redbud

General Information

Cercis chinensis is a deciduous tree that can grow up to 15 metres tall, though is often nearer 3 - 5 metres in cultivation. The bole of larger trees can be 90 - 120cm in diameter[].
The plant is harvested from the wild for local use as a food and medicine. It is cultivated for medicinal use in Korea[], and is widely grown as an ornamental.
Cercis chinensis has a wide distribution range and the population is believed to be stable at present. The plant is classified as 'Least Concern' in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species(2013)[].

Known Hazards

None known

Botanical References

, ,

Range

E. Asia - central and southern China, Korea

Habitat

Woodland and clearings; at elevations from 600 - 1,200 metres in W. Hupeh[]. Commonly cultivated in China, it is rarely found growing in dense forests or limestone areas[].

Properties

Conservation Status	Least Concern
Edibility Rating
Medicinal Rating
Habit	Deciduous Tree
Height	15.00 m
Growth Rate	Slow
Pollinators	Bees
Cultivation Status	Cultivated, Ornamental, Wild

Cultivation Details

Cercis chinensis is quite cold-tolerant, able to withstand temperatures down to around -20°c when dormant, but it requires hot summers if it is to grow well and is generally a failure in more maritime climates[]. Although the dormant plant is cold-hardy, the young growth in spring, even on mature plants, is frost-tender and so it is best to grow the plants in a position sheltered from the early morning sun[].
Prefers a deep damp sandy loam and a very sunny position, though appreciating some shade in hot summer climates[, , ]. Succeeds in most soils and pH types, but dislikes growing in wet soils, especially when these are of clay[]. Dislikes drought[]. Repays generous treatment[].
The flowers are produced on the branches of the previous or earlier years, and also on the trunk of the plant[].
A dioecious species, both male and female forms need to be grown if fruit and seed are required[].
Plants are susceptible to coral spot fungus, especially in areas with cooler summers where the wood is not fully ripened[]. Plants in this genus are notably resistant to honey fungus[].
Resents root disturbance. Young plants should be planted into their permanent positions as soon as possible, preferably in mid spring, and should be kept well watered until established[].
This species has a symbiotic relationship with certain soil bacteria, these bacteria form nodules on the roots and fix atmospheric nitrogen. Some of this nitrogen is utilized by the growing plant but some can also be used by other plants growing nearby[].

Edible Uses

Flowers - raw[]. Relished as a salad for their sweet, acid flavour[].

Although no records of edibility have been seen for the seed, on a zero moisture basis it contains 16.6% protein, 9.2% fat and 2.8% ash[].

Medicinal

Treats bladder diseases, post-partum discharges, bleeding piles and internal parasites[].

The wood and the bark have been used to treat abscesses, bladder ailments and head troubles[].

The flowers are used for relieving rheumatic muscles and joint pain[].

Other Uses

The wood of Cercis species is generally of good quality. It is coarse-textured, easy to work and finishes smoothly. It has a limited use in turnery and cabinet making, but is not available in quantity[].

Propagation

Seed - best sown as soon as it is ripe in a cold frame[]. Pre-soak stored seed for 24 hours in warm water then cold stratify for 3 months[]. Sow spring in the greenhouse[]. As soon as they are large enough to handle, prick the seedlings out into individual pots and grow them on in a greenhouse for their first winter. Plant them out into their permanent positions in late spring or early summer, after the last expected frosts. Plants resent root disturbance and are best planted out in their permanent positions as soon as possible[].
Cuttings of half-ripe wood, mid summer in a frame[].