Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Redbud is a small native tree whose bare branches are covered in magenta-pink flowers in early spring, followed by heart-shaped leaves. Purple-leaved 'Forest Pansy' is popular in both US and UK gardens.
Photo: Greg Hume · CC BY-SA 3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Essential Care Requirements
Light
Full sun, Partial sun
Watering
Moderate
Water young trees regularly; mature trees tolerate dry spells.
Soil
Well-drained soil; pH 6.0–8.0.
Temperature and humidity
-30–38 °C · Moderate humidity
Feeding
Little feeding needed.
Pruning and propagation
Propagate by seed, grafting
Prune after flowering to shape.
Redbud is not toxic; the flowers are edible.
Top Cultivation Tips
Plant young; dislikes being moved.
Weeping forms suit small gardens.
Flowers feed early bees.
Hardy in USDA zones 4–9.
Common problems
Leaf spot
Fungal or bacterial infections that cause brown, black or purple spots on leaves, often with a yellow halo, leading to early leaf drop.
How to treat it →DiseaseVerticillium wilt
A soil-borne fungal disease that blocks the water-conducting tissue, causing leaves to yellow and wilt, often on one side of the plant.
How to treat it →
