About

Cercis canadensis 'Whitewater' is a small, deciduous tree that typically reaches heights of around 2 meters. It features a weeping growth form. In spring, before the leaves emerge, it produces clusters of deep pink, pea-shaped flowers along its bare branches. Following the flowering period, large, heart-shaped leaves with a green and white variegation develop.

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
Neutral, Alkaline, Acid
Soil moisture
Well-drained
Aspect
South-facing, West-facing
Exposure
Exposed, Sheltered
UK hardiness
H5

Plant details

Plant type
Trees
Habit
Pendulous weeping
Foliage
Deciduous
Height
1.5-2.5 metres
Spread
1-1.5 metres
Time to full height
5-10 years
Suggested uses
Architectural, City and courtyard gardens, Cottage and informal garden, Patio and container plants

Care notes

Cultivation
Grow in fertile, moisture-retentive well-drained soil in sun or partial shade; plant in final location when young, older plants resent transplanting. For more information see tree cultivation
Pruning
Pruning group 1 or Pruning group 7 if carried out in dry weather in late spring or early summer to deter the entry of decay organisms
Propagation
Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings in summer
Pest resistance
May be susceptible to leafhoppers and scale insects
Disease resistance
May be susceptible to verticillium wilt, coral spot and honey fungus