Professor Gerhard Rödel was given a sponsored tree as a farewell gift when he left his position as Vice-Rector for Research. In recognition of his outstanding commitment to the development of TU Dresden during his term of office from 2010 to 2020, the Association of Friends and Sponsors of TU Dresden sponsored a tree in his honor.

The Japanese pagoda tree, also known as Chinese scholar tree or pagoda tree, is a medium-sized, deciduous tree that grows to a height of up to 30 meters. The crown of the tree is broad and round. The natural habitat of the Japanese pagoda tree extends from Japan to Korea and China. With its decorative flowers and pods, the Japanese pagoda tree is often cultivated as a solitary plant in parks and avenues.

All parts of the plant except the flowers are regarded as highly poisonous, especially the seeds, bark and the husk of the pods. Due to its toxins, the Japanese pagoda tree is quite well protected against pests. In traditional Chinese medicine, the dried flowers are used as an antihypertensive and anti-inflammatory agent.

The Japanese pagoda tree is a great nectar source and serves as a pollen supplier, for example for the giant resin bee (Megachila sculpturalis).