About
Cercis canadensis 'Alley Cat' is a small, deciduous tree characterized by its rounded shape and compact growth. The leaves are heart-shaped, featuring a mix of green and white variegation, with the white being most prominent in the new growth. In mid-spring, before the foliage fully unfolds, clusters of vibrant pink, pea-like flowers emerge along the stems. This variety is low-maintenance and well-suited for limited spaces, making it an excellent choice for container gardening or smaller landscapes.
About the genus
Cercis consists of deciduous shrubs or small trees characterized by their heart-shaped foliage. The plants produce clusters of vibrant pink pea-like blossoms that emerge either before or alongside the leaves. After flowering, they develop flattened pods that are deep purple in color.
Growing conditions
- Sunlight
- Full sun
- Soil type
- Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
- Soil pH
- Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
- Soil moisture
- Well-drained
- Aspect
- East-facing, South-facing, West-facing
- Exposure
- Exposed, Sheltered
- UK hardiness
- H5
Plant details
- Plant type
- Trees
- Habit
- Bushy
- Foliage
- Deciduous
- Height
- 4-8 metres
- Spread
- 4-8 metres
- Time to full height
- 20-50 years
- Suggested uses
- Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants
Care notes
- Cultivation
- Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive but well-drained soil in sun
- Pruning
- Pruning group 1
- Propagation
- Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings
- Pest resistance
- May be susceptible to leafhoppers and scale insects
- Disease resistance
- May be susceptible to verticillium wilt and coral spot