Cercidiphyllum japonicum, commonly known as the Katsura tree, is a deciduous tree native to Japan and China. It features heart-shaped leaves that emerge reddish-purple in spring, turn vibrant green in summer, and display striking shades of yellow, orange, and red in autumn. The tree can grow up to 15-20 meters tall, with a broad, rounded canopy providing excellent shade. Katsura trees are noted for their sweet, candy-like fragrance in the fall when the leaves drop. They thrive in moist, well-drained soils and are popular in landscapes for their ornamental beauty and seasonal interest.