Cercis canadensis

Common Names

Eastern Redbud, Redbud, Judas Tree

Summary

Eastern Redbud is a deciduous tree native to the eastern United States, typically reaching 20–30 ft tall and 25–35 ft wide with a vase-shaped crown. In early spring, clusters of pink to magenta pea-like flowers appear on bare branches or trunks before leaves, followed by heart-shaped leaves that emerge reddish and mature to green, with yellow fall color. Flowers attract bees, butterflies, and other pollinators; seed pods develop afterward.

It tolerates full sun to partial shade and a wide range of well-drained soils, from moist to dry, and is drought-tolerant once established. Propagation is by seed (stratification may be required) or by grafting/cuttings for cultivars; numerous cultivars exist, including Ace of Hearts, Forest Pansy, Alba, Pinkbud, Purple Leaf, and Silver Cloud. Pest and disease pressures include borers, scale, canker, leaf spots, and Verticillium wilt; it is also noted as the state tree of Oklahoma and widely used as an ornamental or understory plant in landscapes.

Lifecycle

Perennial

Height

240-360 inches

Spread

25-35 feet

Hardiness Zones

Zones 4-9

Sunlight Requirements

Ideally Full Sun to Partial Shade.

Soil Type

Moist, well-drained soil

Soil Drainage

Moist, well-drained soil

Soil pH

5.0-8.0, wide pH tolerance from acidic to alkaline

Bloom Color

Pink to magenta

Bloom Time

Spring (February–May)

Foliage Color

Green with dark green summer foliage and yellow fall foliage

Fall Foliage Color

Yellow

Leaf Lifecycle

Deciduous

Growth Rate

Fast

Seasons of Interest

Spring, Summer, Fall, and Winter.

Propagation Methods

Seeds, Cuttings, Grafting

Attracts Wildlife

Bees: Yes, Hummingbirds: Yes, Butterflies: Yes, Other pollinators: Yes, Birds: Yes