Redbud

Scientific Description

Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a member of the bean (Fabaceae) family and is a deciduous shrub or small tree native to eastern North America, growing throughout hardiness zones 4 through 8. It achieves an average height of 20 to 25 feet and a width of 25 to 35 feet. The many early spring blossoms are a mauve-pink color and last for 2-3 weeks. This tree will add magnificent color to any garden area.

This species prefers full sun to partial sun. It is a definitely low maintenance species.

Unfortunately, this species will not live more than about 20 years — it will succumb to canker, Verticillium wilt, dieback, leafspot, and mildew problems.  Several insect pests add to the stress this species eventually will succumb to.

Habitat Value

The greatest feature of redbud is its spring show of the flowers that drape the tree. The flowers start off as magenta when the tree is in bud, and transition to a bright pink later in spring. The flowers are present for 2-3 weeks starting in March and extending through May.  

This species requires part shade to shade conditions and moist soil conditions. It prefers moist, fertile, well-drained soils.

It grows well in woods, limestone bluffs, and stream banks.  

Landscape Value

Written by Matt Whitaker for WMWA Landscape Architects

Redbuds and dogwoods form one of the most iconic plant duos. While both are somewhat diminutive understory trees throughout most of the year, the sudden explosion of their blooms marks the coming of spring and are often offset by a few weeks. I associate no other plants more with my home in the foothills of the Appalachians. Redbuds grow fast, bloom early, and provide nice winter interest as their dark gray bark and dangling seed pods enliven a garden landscape. The edible blooms make tasty additions to salads. They seem to thrive in limestone cuts along highways, forming spectacular displays with subtle variations in bloom tone. Charlie notes they can be relatively short-lived, but every old redbud I have seen has new fresh trunk(s) sprouting from the old and they seem to last for a decade by reinventing themselves. Like dogwoods, they sport some of the most sculptural trunk arrangements in our native plant palettes. Everyone should have one or ten in your lawn. Maybe a nine-tree square bosque on 8-foot centers. That will impress your friends and give you a place for an incredible outdoor dinner.