The Cercis Trees are characterised by their heart shaped leaves. Cercis is derived from the Greek word Kerkis meaning weavers shuttle.
The name Judas Tree is thought to have originated because the trees are commonly found in Judea and one may have been used by Judas Iscariot to hang himself.
Cercis Forset Pansy is mostly grown for its striking heart shaped leaves which turn from deep red-purple to shades of orange, bronze and a lighter shad of red-purple in the autumn.