March 2026

Cercis canadensis, commonly called eastern redbud, is a deciduous, often multi-trunked understory tree with a rounded crown that typically matures to 20-30’ tall with a slightly larger spread. It is particularly noted for its stunning pea-like rose-purple flowers which bloom profusely on bare branches in early spring (March-April) before the foliage emerges. This tree is native to eastern and central North America from Connecticut to New York to southern Ontario and the Great Lakes south to Western Texas and Florida. Flowers (to ½” wide) bloom in clusters of 4-10. Flowers are followed by flattened leguminous bean-like dry seedpods (to 2-4” long) that mature to brown in summer. Each pod has 6-12 seeds. Pods may remain on the tree into winter. Alternate, simple, cordate, broadly ovate to nearly orbicular, dull green to blue-green leaves (3-5” across) have a papery texture and are short pointed at the tip. Leaves turn pale yellow to greenish-yellow in fall. The flowers provide an early-season nectar source for hummingbirds. The seeds and flower buds are eaten by songbirds. Caterpillars and other insects which feed on redbuds are also a source of food for birds.

Eastern redbuds are easy to grow in average, medium-moisture, well-drained soil and thrive in full sun to part shade, though part shade is often best in hot summer climates. They perform best in moderately fertile soil with regular, consistent moisture and should be planted in areas with good drainage, as they do not tolerate wet or poorly drained conditions. Because redbuds can be difficult to transplant once established, they are best planted while young and left undisturbed.