Trees and Shrubs
Many species of trees and shrubs thrive in Skåne's mild climate. Representatives of more than 200 genera are planted in the Botanical Garden. They are still arranged according to the founder Jacob Georg Agardh's plant classification from 1858.
Some trees are more than 150 years old and were planted at the time when the garden was established. Examples are the tulip trees (Liriodendron) in the central circle of the garden. The tulip tree flower is the logotype of the Botanical Garden in Lund.
In recent years, many old trees have died, and more are expected to follow. We therefore have started an extensive program to plant new trees. Examples of recent additions to the tree collection are several oak species and beeches of regional origin planted in the southern part of the garden. Many large trees have died there in recent years.
Please note that the Botanical Garden always tries to avoid cutting down trees. We extend the life of the trees by supporting larger branches and by stabilizing or pruning them. Sometimes this is not enough and the trees are a risk to visitors and staff. Then we have no choice but to cut them down.
Judas tree
The Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum) grows in an area that stretches from France to Iran. The flowers are characteristic of the pea family (Fabaceae). When they bloom in the Botanical Garden in May, they attract attention not only for their beautiful deep pink color, but also because they grow directly from the woody trunk! This phenomenon is called cauliflory. Cauliflory is only found in about 100 species and is more common among tropical trees.
According to the myth, Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a tree of this species, causing the white flowers to turn red. More likely, the name is a misinterpretation of the French name Arbre de Judée, that is, tree from Judea.