The redbud tree is an ideal choice for early spring blooms, offering a kaleidoscope of colors to brighten up your garden. With such a diverse range of varieties available, you’re bound to find one that thrives in your specific environment, regardless of the climate or soil conditions. One of the best aspects of growing redbuds is their low maintenance requirements – once planted, they’ll provide endless joy during spring with minimal fuss.
As the flowers fade, the elegant heart-shaped foliage takes center stage, adding a pop of color to your garden. Native to North America, this stunning tree has adapted well to various environments and can be grown in a range of climates. You’ll find weeping forms, trees with striking pink leaves, and even varieties that bloom for extended periods. The redbud tree is truly a treasure, offering endless possibilities for gardeners of all levels.
What Are Redbud Trees?
Redefining the notion of legumes, Redbud trees (Cercis spp.) are actually part of the bean family, comprising multiple species native to North America and beyond. The eastern redbud (C. canadensis) is the most widespread variety, but it’s not alone; other notable species include the Mexican redbud (C. mexicana), western redbud (C. occidentalis), Oklahoma redbud (C. reniformis), Chinese redbud (C. chinensis), and the Judas tree (C. siliquastrum) from the Mediterranean region.
With an array of options for foliage, blooms, height, and temperature tolerance, there’s a Redbud variety suited to almost every environment. Some varieties even boast weeping habits, adding to their unique charm. Generally thriving in USDA Growing Zones 4 to 9, these adaptable trees can be found growing in a range of conditions, with some varieties specifically tailored to local climates.
16 of the Best Redbuds
When it comes to cultivating redbuds, the options can be overwhelming. However, here are some of our favorite varieties that are sure to impress:
The Rising Sun
This particular C. canadensis cultivar boasts a mesmerizing trait – its leaves transform with the seasons. The blooms themselves remain a stunning fuchsia hue, but it’s the foliage that truly steals the show. In the spring, the leaves debut in a warm apricot tone before transitioning to a radiant gold. As summer arrives, they take on a vibrant lime green color, a true marvel of nature.
Ace of Hearts
The ‘Ace of Hearts’ dwarf eastern cultivar is an ideal choice for compact spaces or container cultivation. At a maximum height of 12 feet, this variety requires minimal pruning efforts to maintain its natural shape.
Forest Pansy
The striking ‘Forest Pansy’ cultivar of Cercis canadensis is a common sight in North America, renowned for its vibrant display of burgundy leaves. Following the fading of the fuchsia flowers, these scarlet-purple leaves emerge, taking on a deeper hue in cooler climates and gradually losing their intensity to a greenish tone in warmer regions.
Hearts of Gold
The ‘Hearts of Gold’ C. canadensis cultivar puts on a vibrant display in the spring, showcasing stunning purple-red flowers that continue to bloom well into the summer months. But that’s not all – the foliage also undergoes a striking transformation, starting out as bright yellow before maturing into a lush, vibrant green as the seasons transition.
Texas White
What sets ‘Texas White’ apart from many other redbud varieties is its unique floral display. Rather than the typical red blooms, this tree produces striking white flowers that grab attention and add a touch of elegance to any landscape. Following these showy blossoms are dark green leaves that provide a beautiful contrast and create a sense of visual interest.
Merlot
Combining the best of ‘Texas White’ and ‘Forest Pansy’, this hybrid plant boasts exceptional heat and drought tolerance. Its dark purple leaves retain their vibrant color, even in warmer climates, making it a highly sought-after addition to any garden. If you’re lucky enough to get your hands on one, it’s definitely worth the effort.
Flame Thrower
The ‘Flame Thrower’ tree boasts an unforgettable display of vibrant colors, commencing with its show-stopping reddish-purple flowers in the spring. As these blooms give way to bright red foliage, the scenery shifts dramatically. A unique aspect of this tree’s seasonal transformation is that not all leaves undergo a color change simultaneously. Instead, the progression unfolds like a canvas, revealing a kaleidoscope of hues – yellow and green – as the seasons evolve.
Floating Clouds
The ‘Floating Clouds’ cultivar of C. canadensis sets itself apart from others through its striking white and green variegated foliage. This unique feature becomes apparent as the vibrant fuchsia flowers that initially bloom in the spring begin to fade, giving way to the emergence of this beautiful foliage.
Tennessee Pink
The C. canadensis cultivar stands out with its strikingly pink blooms, diverging from the typical reddish or fuchsia hues found in many other redbuds. This unique characteristic makes it an attractive option for those seeking a more subdued, yet still vibrant, floral display.
Appalachian Red
The showstopping blooms of Ceanothus canadensis are a sight to behold, as they transform the tree into a fiery spectacle during the spring. The vibrant flowers – often a stunning shade of beauty or bright red – blanket the tree in a mesmerizing display, evoking the image of smoldering flames that dance across its branches.
Oklahoma
The ‘Oklahoma’ cultivar is a specific variety of eastern redbuds, distinguished by texensis. Notably more heat tolerant than its species counterpart, this cultivar has a rich history as a distinct entity, previously classified as the separate species C. reniformis. Native to southeastern regions of North America, Oklahoma boasts a shrubby growth habit, setting it apart from other varieties within the eastern redbud family.
Redbuds With a Weeping Form
In recent years, the world of tree breeding has seen significant advancements in the realm of redbuds. One notable area of progress is the development of stunning weeping forms. If you’re interested in getting your hands on one of these unique trees, here are some varieties to keep an eye out for: Ruby Falls, Lavender Twist, Cascading Hearts, Varigated Weeper, and Traveller.
Propagating Redbud Trees
When it comes to propagating redbud trees, there are two straightforward approaches to consider. The simplest and most convenient option is to purchase a tree from a trusted nursery or gardening store. Alternatively, if you’re looking for a more cost-effective solution, you can opt for one of the methods outlined below, which will help you achieve the same goal without breaking the bank.
10 Steps to Take Redbud Cuttings
To increase your chances of success with redbud cuttings, start by selecting young trees under five years old. This age group is more reliable for forming roots on cuttings than older trees. When preparing to take cuttings, be prepared to take multiple attempts as only a few will actually work. Timing is crucial, so wait until spring or summer when the blooms have faded and foliage starts to form.
Before starting, ensure your containers are ready by filling them with a mix of peat and perlite or sand. Then, cut 6-inch softwood cuttings just below a set of leaves, making sure there are no flowers or buds on the cutting. Remove lower leaves to expose the nodes. To give your cuttings the best chance of success, apply rooting hormone powder. Plant each cutting into the growing medium, leaving half of it exposed.
Place the containers in a location where the temperature will remain at least 70ºF and ensure the peat medium stays moist. Water only when the top inch feels dry, aiming to keep the top two inches consistently moist. After four weeks, check for roots by gently tugging on the cutting. If you feel resistance, it’s likely that roots have formed. Wait another two weeks before transplanting the rooted cuttings into potting mix in a larger container.
When replanting, provide partial shade to protect the newly transplanted redbud from intense afternoon sun until it’s established enough to thrive in its new environment.
Grow Redbud Trees From Seed
Starting redbud seeds from scratch requires patience, but the end result is rewarding. As someone who enjoys nurturing life from tiny beginnings, I find the process both enjoyable and fulfilling.
To ensure successful germination, you’ll need to overcome two significant hurdles: breaking down the seed’s tough exterior and overcoming its natural dormancy. The solution lies in a combination of hot water and refrigerator storage.
Here are the 8 steps to successfully grow redbuds from seed:
1. Collect seeds when the pods have turned brown and dry, typically in the fall.
2. Soak the seeds in boiling water for one minute to break down their natural defenses.
3. Mix equal parts sand and peat moss in a container suitable for refrigerator storage.
4. Fill the container halfway with the sand-peat mixture, followed by adding the seeds on top.
5.
Cover the seeds with more of the mixture, then moisten everything with a spray bottle to keep things humid.
6. Wrap tinfoil over the container’s lid, carefully punching small holes for airflow and gas exchange.
7. Store the container in the refrigerator at a temperature range of 35ºF to 40ºF for eight weeks, allowing the seeds to overcome their natural dormancy.
8.
Once the seed-starting process is complete, transplant the seeds into seed-raising mix and nurture them as you would any young plant.
How to Care for Redbud Trees
Redbuds thrive in USDA Growing Zones 4 to 9, but certain cultivars might be suitable for areas outside these zones. Consult with a local nursery to determine the best options for your region.
In terms of sunlight, redbuds require at least four hours of direct sunshine daily, although many varieties can handle full sun. The trees are not finicky about soil pH, but they do prefer conditions above 7.5.
As long as the soil drains well and is free from significant nutrient deficiencies, your redbud will be content.
During the first month after planting, water your tree twice a week. For months two and three, reduce watering to once weekly. Once established, rely on rainfall or provide deep watering once a month. Remember that if the top three inches of soil feel dry, it’s likely time to add more water and ensure proper care for your growing redbuds.
Fertilizing
For optimal plant growth, consider applying a well-rounded 10-10-10 balanced fertilizer every three to four months during the active growing period. This frequency helps maintain a consistent nutrient supply and supports the overall health of your plants.
Pruning
The beauty of growing redbuds lies not only in their stunning foliage, but also in the minimal maintenance required. A little pruning now and then will keep your trees thriving. Start by addressing any damaged or diseased branches that may have developed – a simple task that will prevent further issues. As the tree grows, you’ll need to prune to shape it. This involves removing certain branches to guide the tree’s development and achieve the desired silhouette.
To do this effectively, follow these steps: first, remove any damaged or diseased growth, then focus on shaping the tree to your liking. Aim to create a smooth, rounded profile that resembles a ‘U’ or a cupped shape. Don’t forget the importance of airflow – a well-pruned redbud will allow for optimal air circulation, promoting healthy growth and overall vitality.
Best Companion Plants for Growing Redbuds
As the seasons transition from winter to spring, a symphony of colors begins to unfold in the garden. The first notes are struck by the vibrant yellow blooms of Forsythia, their clusters of tiny flowers like rays of sunshine bursting forth from bare branches. Next, the understated elegance of Bluebells takes center stage, their delicate, bell-shaped petals swaying gently in the breeze.
Daffodils then make their appearance, their bright trumpet-like centers shining like beacons amidst a sea of emerald green foliage. Tulips follow, their cup-shaped blooms bursting with color and energy, while Moss Phlox adds subtle texture to the mix with its delicate, moss-like foliage and tiny white flowers. Finally, Evergreen Candytuft brings a touch of year-round interest to the garden with its glossy leaves and clusters of small, sweet-scented blooms.
Problems and Solutions for Growing Redbud Trees
When cultivating redbuds, establishing a solid foundation for optimal growth is crucial. While these trees generally thrive without significant issues, certain factors can impact their health. Drought stress and poorly draining soil are two common culprits that may lead to problems if not properly addressed.
Cankers
Pathogens within the Botryosphaeria genus are responsible for causing dieback and canker in redbud trees. The initial signs of infection often manifest as sunken areas on the bark, which gradually expand into black cankers featuring cracks at their center. As the canker advances, it encircles the branches, resulting in death to any tissues behind it. Some varieties of redbud are particularly susceptible to canker disease and may succumb entirely.
To combat the issue, prune infected branches well beyond the point where the canker begins, ensuring you remove all affected bark and discoloration. Maintain a healthy tree by providing adequate spring nutrients and consistent watering to keep its defenses strong. When pruning or mowing around redbuds, exercise caution to avoid causing unnecessary damage to the trees.
Leaf Spot
A tree infected with leaf spots caused by Mycosphaerella cercidicola may not seem like a major concern initially, but if left unchecked, it can lead to long-term damage and compromise the tree’s overall health over time. The disease can cause the tree to lose its vigor, making it more susceptible to other pests and problems. The initial symptoms typically manifest as rusty brown spots with a raised outer edge on the leaves.
As the infection progresses, the upper surface of the leaf will turn gray, while the underside remains brown. To prevent the spread of the disease and promote the tree’s health, it is essential to remove any fallen leaves and ensure the redbud tree receives adequate water and fertilizer.
Scale
Among the various species of scale that can threaten growing redbuds, the terrapin scale (Mesolecanium nigrofasciatum) is a particularly common culprit. These unwanted visitors can be found on small twigs of redbud trees, with each generation typically occurring annually. The terrapin scales themselves are characterized by their reddish-brown coloration and black mottling on an oval-shaped body approximately 1/8 inch in length.
As for reproduction, eggs are usually laid around June each year, with the resulting infestations capable of causing significant harm to the redbud tree. In fact, severe outbreaks can even prove fatal to the tree. The scales’ sap-sucking habits not only weaken the tree’s vigor but also leave behind a sticky residue that attracts both ants and wasps. Fortunately, our comprehensive guide to scale control offers valuable insights for reclaiming dominance over these pesky pests.
Tent Caterpillar
The tent caterpillar’s unique appearance makes it easy to identify. Its fuzzy body is a reddish-brown hue with distinctive tufts of white hair. Another telltale sign is the intricate nests they construct in tree branches. These caterpillars feed on leaves, and if left unchecked, can cause significant defoliation. To manage an infestation, prune affected branches and consider burning them to prevent the spread of the problem.
Alternatively, simply sweep away any infested foliage without worrying excessively. Although tent caterpillars can cause some damage, they typically won’t be fatal to a tree. With time, the tree will recover, as these pests tend to appear in large numbers only every few years.
White Marked Tussock Moth
Unlike Orgyia leucostigma’s single-brood strategy, this species adopts a unique two-generation approach each year. Overwintering on tree trunks, they emerge in May to start their life cycle anew. By late June, the caterpillars have matured, only to be replaced by a new generation around August. The adult moths boast striking brown and yellow stripes, punctuated by a distinctive red spot behind the head.
Their feeding habits, however, are less visually appealing – they devour foliage, leaving behind leaf skeletons. While small-scale infestations may not significantly impact the tree’s health, large populations can compromise its ability to photosynthesize. To mitigate this issue, apply products containing Bacillus thuringiensis on and around the caterpillar’s webs, carefully following the product instructions.
Other common pests include:
Best Uses
When it comes to attracting pollinators, redbuds are an excellent choice. As the trees burst forth with new life in the spring, they become a haven for bees and butterflies, whose gentle hum fills the air as they flit from branch to branch.
One of the best things about redbuds is their versatility. Whether you choose a compact variety or a larger one, they can thrive in large containers, serve as a stunning specimen tree, or provide dappled shade for a picnic area or seating nook.
But what many people don’t know is that redbuds are also edible. The young leaves and flowers can be harvested and added to salads or used in creative culinary applications, giving you a unique ingredient to add some excitement to your cooking.
