Eastern Redbud

 Cercis canadensis

 This native ornamental deciduous tree features redbuds visually similar to pea blossoms and is well known for its dramatic and beautiful displays of purple or white flowers in the springs.

A large deciduous ornamental tree in the Fabaceae or Pea family.  The blossoms of redbuds look very similar to pea blossoms.  Although most redbuds have lavender-pink flowers, certain varieties and cultivars have white, deep magenta, or light pink flowers.  The early blossoms draw nectar-seeking insects.

 It is also known by several other common names including American Judas Tree, American Redbud, Eastern Redbud, Judas Tree, Mexican Redbud, Redbud and the Texas Redbud.

Eastern redbud is a deciduous, ornamental tree in the Fabaceae or pea family. It is native to eastern North America and may grow up to 20 or 30 feet tall. The genus name Cercis comes from the Greek word kerkis, which means weaver's shuttle, referring to the fact that the seed pod resembles the size and shape of a weaver's shuttle used to move thread back and forth on a loom. Sometimes called the Judas tree, from its oriental relative of that name, it is a smaller tree with a nearly flat or rounded crown that is often found growing beneath taller trees.

The tree is pH adaptable and can tolerate full sun or part shade and moderately fertile clay or sandy soil. It does not tolerate heat or drought that can stress the tree, or wet soils. It does not tolerate root disturbance, so plants should be placed in their permanent positions as soon as possible and should be kept well-watered until established. Because its branches tend to break, the tree should be sited in a relatively protected area. Regular watering, fertilization, and pruning out dead branches as needed will keep the tree vigorous.

Eastern redbud is a flowering tree that blooms before the leaves appear. In early spring, clusters of rose pink to light purple flowers mature and attract many pollinators including butterflies, and bees.  The plant holds great wildlife value as a larval host plant and the bean pod fruits provide food for songbirds.  

Plant this tree as a specimen in a pollinator garden, as an understory tree in a wooded landscape, in small groups, or mass planted for a dramatic springtime effect. It may also be planted as a street or lawn tree, but is very sensitive to herbicides and chemicals sprayed on lawns.

Insect pests include leafhoppers, caterpillars, borers, Japanese beetles, treehoppers, scale, and webworms. Possible diseases include canker, dieback, leaf spots, verticillium wilt, blights, and mildew.   It can be a short-lived plant, typically living less than 75 years.