What is a Heart-Shaped Leaf Tree?
A heart-shaped leaf tree, scientifically termed “cordate,” is a type of tree with leaves that has a shape reminiscent of the classic heart symbol. These leaves typically have a broad base that tapers to a pointed tip, resembling the two upper curves and pointed end of a heart. Trees with heart-shaped leaves are often sought after for their unique aesthetic appeal, adding a touch of romance and beauty to gardens and landscapes.
Heart-shaped tree leaves can be cordate or obcordate, depending on which end has the petiole.
- Cordate leaves: The petiole is attached to the indentation at the rounded base.
- Obcordate leaves: The petiole is attached to the pointed end of the heart-shaped leaf.
Trees With Heart Shaped Leaves
Katsura Tree
This tree grows up to 50 feet tall and thrives in full sun or partial shade. Its heart-shaped leaves, vibrant autumn colors, and sweet fragrance make it a standout specimen for outdoor spaces. It is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 8.
Sacred Fig Tree
A large, deciduous tree with distinctive heart-shaped leaves, it grows up to 100 feet tall in ideal conditions. Native to the Indian subcontinent, it thrives in tropical rainforests and can withstand flooded ground and warm, humid climates.
Catalpa Tree
This tree can reach 40 feet in height and is characterized by its distinctive heart-shaped leaves. It is often planted as a street tree due to its attractive appearance.
Henry’s Lime Tree
Native to Western Asia and Europe, this deciduous tree grows up to 25 meters high. It has heart-shaped leaves and thrives in moist, well-drained soil in USDA zones 5 to 9.
Quaking Aspen Tree
Known for its smooth bark and heart-shaped leaves, this tree grows to be 40 to 70 feet tall and wide with a narrow, rounded crown. It prefers full sun and well-drained soil.
Flame Thrower Redbud Tree
This tree combines the beauty of burgundy-colored redbuds with golden redbuds, producing up to five colors on its branches. It can grow up to 20 feet high and 15 feet wide, and is hardy in various soils.
Silver Linden Tree
Native to Europe, Asia, and Turkey, this huge tree can grow up to 50-70 feet tall and is best suited for USDA zones 4-7. It features heart-shaped leaves and fragrant yellow flowers.
Northern Catalpa
A deciduous tree that produces white, fragrant flowers and heart-shaped leaves. It is native to northern Arkansas, western Tennessee, southern Indiana, and southern Illinois.
Western Redbud
Known for its heart-shaped leaves and pink-purple flowers, this tree is not too demanding about growing conditions and requires bright sunlight.
Eastern Redbud
Similar to the Western Redbud, it displays heart-shaped leaves and numerous purple-pink blooms in warmer months. It can be grown in well-draining soil in full sun.
Foxglove Tree (Empress Tree)
Native to China, this tree can grow in USDA zones 6-9 and features heart-shaped leaves that change colors.
Italian Alder
A deciduous tree that can grow up to 70-80 feet high with large heart-shaped leaves. It is native to southern Italy and thrives in full sun or partial shade.
Silver Linden (Tilia tomentosa)
Native to Southeastern Europe and Western Asia, this tree can grow up to 70 feet tall. It is known for its heart-shaped leaves with shimmering silver undersides and fragrant yellowish-white flowers.
Northern Catalpa (Catalpa speciosa): Native to the midwestern United States, this tree can grow up to 50 feet tall. It is known for its large, broad heart-shaped leaves and showy white flowers that bloom in late spring.
Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis)
A small deciduous tree native to the western regions of North America, known for its vibrant magenta-pink flowers that bloom in early spring, even before its leaves appear.
Japanese Tree Lilac (Syringa reticulata)
This tree is more resistant to powdery mildew disease compared to shrub-form lilacs, making its heart-shaped leaves more of an asset.
Carolina Basswood (Tilia caroliniana)
A member of the Malvaceae family, this tree can reach heights of 98 feet and is a native of Mexico and the southeast and southern United States. It is identified by its huge, heart-shaped, silvery leaves.
Empress Tree (Paulownia tomentosa)
This tree is known for its heart-shaped leaves and is often planted for its ornamental value. It can grow up to 50 feet tall.
Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)
A small deciduous tree native to eastern North America, known for its pinkish-red flowers that bloom in early spring before its heart-shaped leaves appear.