Katsura Tree

(Question)

We have a small garden in downtown Toronto, and with to plant a specimen tree near a 2m fence. The object is to hide the view of the next door property. We saw a Katsura tree at a nursery, and were told that in Ontario the tree would maybe grow to 25 feet with a 15 foot width of growth. our question is can it be controlled to the size we were told. The ground has two feet of good topsoil on top of clay. Drip irrigation is installed. The area gets full sun all day. Thank you.

(Answer)

Thank you for contacting Toronto Master Gardeners.

Instead of pruning the tree you may want to explore the different varieties of Katsura trees. There are different varieties of Katsura trees, some will grow smaller than others (Ruby’ Katsura (Cercidiphyllum japonicum ‘Ruby’): Small (30 feet tall); sports blue-purple leaves).

This website will provide the details of the different varieties: How to Care and Grow a Katsura Tree    The website also includes when to prune a Katsura, what soil is best suited for a Katsura tree.

The Toronto Master Gardeners website also provides information on how to plant a tree once you have purchased your Katsura. Planting a Tree

April 21, 2023