Eastern redbud
Cercis canadensis 路 Fabaceae 路 also Redbud
A beloved small flowering tree (20-30 feet) with rose-pink flowers crowding bare branches in early spring and big heart-shaped leaves. The eastern form has thin leaves that scorch in Texas heat and it is short-lived (often under 75 years, and much less in hot climates). Austin's Grow Green guide says plainly that eastern redbud is not recommended; plant the Texas or Mexican variety instead.
Where it stands
Native
- 馃嚭馃嚫 United States 路 Also native in: CT, DC, DE, IA, IL, IN, KS, KY, MA, MD, MI, MO, NE, NJ, NY, OH, PA, VA, WV (USDA PLANTS distribution)source
- 馃嚭馃嚫 AL, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 AR, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 FL, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 GA, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 LA, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 MS, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 NC, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 NM, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 OK, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 SC, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 TN, United Statessource
- 馃嚭馃嚫 TX, United States 路 Native in east Texas; the City of Austin Grow Green plant guide says 'Eastern Redbud not recommended' and lists Texas and Mexican redbud insteadsource
Care
Plant in well-drained soil with afternoon shade in hot climates and keep it watered until established and through summer droughts. Prune out dead wood as needed; branches are brittle, so give it a sheltered spot. Canker, verticillium wilt and borers are common and shorten its life. Sensitive to herbicides and lawn chemicals.
Benefits
Good for