Question

Which tree derives its name from common legend that Judas Iscariot hanged himself on it?

• A. Quercus robur
• B. Araucaria araucana
• C. Curchorus capsularis
• D. Cercis siliquastrum

Answer 1

The correct option is D Cercis siliquastrum

Cercis siliquastrum, commonly known as the Judas tree or Judas-tree, is a small deciduous tree from Southern Europe and Western Asia which is noted for its prolific display of deep pink flowers in spring. This species forms a small tree up to 12 m (39 ft) in height and 10 m (32 ft) in width. The deep pink flowers are produced on year-old or older growth, including the trunk, in spring. Also, the flowers display a blossom with five free petals and fused sepals. This shape is specific to the Fabaceae. The leaves appear shortly after the first flowers emerge. These are cordate with a blunt apex, which occasionally has a shallow notch at the tip. The tree produces long flat pods that hang vertically. The flowers are edible and purportedly have a sweet-acid taste. There is a belief that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a tree of this species. Another possible source for the vernacular name is the fact that the flowers and seed pods can dangle direct from the trunk in a way reminiscent of Judas's possible method of suicide.

So the correct option is 'Cercis siliquastrum'.