The Magic of Trees: A Guide to Their Sacred Wisdom & Metaphysical Properties - Tess Whitehurst 2017
Katsura
The Trees
The katsura tree’s divine beauty and elegance make him a very popular ornamental not only in his native countries of China and Japan, but also throughout the world. His lush, heart-shaped leaves are purplish red in spring and green in summer. In fall they turn a gorgeous gold, and—as if showing off— they begin to emanate the fragrance of warm caramel or toasted maple scones.
While similar in many ways to the redbud (and sometimes called “the Japanese redbud”), katsura (Cercidiphyllum) is a separate species. When identifying, simply look to the leaves: katsura leaves are opposite, while redbud leaves are alternating.
Magical Uses
Lunar Alignment
A Japanese legend states that katsura trees grow on the moon. Indeed, the tree’s vibrant energy is also both ethereal and otherworldly. To align yourself and your magic with the rhythm and harmony of the moon, or to request initiation into the lunar mysteries, spend time in quiet contemplation with a katsura tree when the moon is visible in the sky.
Fame
With his elegance, allure, and kaleidoscopic mystique, katsura obviously has much in common with a perennially popular celebrity. As such, if it’s your intention to attract attention and increase your fame, katsura is an excellent ally to enlist. For example, you might try the following ritual.
KATSURA FAME RITUAL
When the moon is in Leo and between second quarter and full, wash a moonstone in saltwater and rinse thoroughly. Visit a katsura tree and empower the moonstone in the light of the moon. Relax, tune in to the tree, touch the trunk with love, and request that he support you in increasing your fame and positive recognition. Place the moonstone as an offering at his base. Spend a bit more time in communion with the tree, and allow yourself to receive an infusion of the tree’s irresistible fascination and mystique.
Magical Correspondences
Element: Fire
Gender: Masculine and feminine
Planet: Venus, Moon