Eastern Redbud

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis, Fabaceae) is a fast-growing deciduous tree native to eastern North America from New Jersey to Florida, west to Missouri and northern Mexico. It typically reaches 20 to 30 feet tall with a rounded, often multi-trunked form. Small rosy-pink pea-like flowers bloom profusely on bare branches in early spring before leaves emerge, making it a precocious bloomer. Dense, dark green, heart-shaped leaves turn golden yellow in fall. Flat pods (5 to 7.5 centimeters) may persist through winter.

Eastern redbud grows in part shade on moist, well-drained soils (pH 6.0 to 8.0) with low water needs and high drought tolerance, hardy in Zones 6b to 9b. It tolerates deer browse, clay soil, and black walnut proximity. The species does not transplant well and should be planted young. Documented diseases include vascular streak dieback and verticillium wilt. It is a larval host for 12 Lepidoptera species including Henry's Elfin butterfly. Cultivars include 'Forest Pansy' (purple foliage, 20 feet) and 'Ruby Falls' (weeping, 6 to 8 feet). A white-flowered form (var. alba) is also available.