Cercis canadensis (Eastern Redbud)

Cercis canadensis, commonly referred to as eastern redbud, is a small, ornamental native typically found as a small understory tree or large multi-stemmed shrub. Typically redbud is slow growing, but can reach heights of 20-30' tall and can be used in the landscape as a specimen or shade tree or used in naturalization plantings at woodland edges. Clusters of fragrant rose-purple flowers line the stem and persist for two to three weeks before the foliage emerges in late spring; flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.

In late spring, heart-shaped leaves emerge a cool blue-green and darken to deep forest green, and the bark may develop interesting orange streaks with age; fall foliage is yellow, but not necessarily striking. Redbud typically develops a rounded habit as it matures. Redbud grows best in partial shade to full sun and preferably in moist, well drained, soils with some organic content; trees are deer, walnut, and clay soil tolerant and as they mature, larger trees are also adaptable to dry conditions.