Cercidiphyllum japonicum ‘Red Fox’

Katsura trees have always impressed me with their symmetrical form, tight branching and clean foliage. When I stumbled upon the variety, ‘Red Fox’ (also known as ‘Rotfuchs’) many years ago, I was instantly smitten. Who wouldn’t want to plant a maroon-leaf katsura tree? I planted and watched that 3-foot-tall specimen grow to almost 20 feet tall and 10 feet wide over 20 years and am enthralled every spring when the heart-shaped foliage emerges a very deep maroon with greenish yellow highlights along the veins. Katsura trees (Cercidiphyllum japonicum) are native to Japan and China although this selection was selected in Germany in the late 1970s and continues to accumulate a fan base as it slowly becomes more available.

This species is best grown in rich, moist and well-drained soils. This tree is not pH sensitive although it does get a better fall color in acidic soils. With very little tolerance for drought in youth, I would ensure adequate moisture for maximum plant vigor and health. Position this more compact and columnar selection in mostly sun to maximize the deepest of burgundy-maroon foliage in the spring. A sheltered location is ideal as is some shading of the hottest afternoon sun in warmer climates.

Do note that the intense maroon foliage coloration in spring fades out by mid-summer to a blue-green with a faint maroon overtone. The fall color is a beautiful gold with some darker orange, red or maroon edges. At the time of maximum peak color, an amazing scent is prominently emitted which has been described as burnt sugar, cotton candy or roasted marshmallows!

I’ve observed a dozen specimens of ‘Red Fox’ and all have had a very low canopy with multiple stems creating a narrowly oval form that does broaden with age. While growing about 12-15 inches per year, the prediction is for a mature height of 40 feet or so and a width of 25 feet. This tree has some tolerance to urban pollution and gains increasingly shaggy, exfoliating, grey-brown bark as it matures. Propagation can be challenging and is primarily through semi-hardwood cuttings.

Why grow Cercidiphyllum japonicum ‘Red Fox’?

• Engagingly rich, dark maroon spring foliage
• Compact and narrow form, nice winter silhouette
• Durable and long-lived specimen
• Excellent fall color timed with engaging scent