Eastern Redbud,  Cercis canadensis

A  lovely native understory tree, famous for its clouds of  pink blossoms that herald the arrival of spring. It grows into a rounded, spreading, vase-like shape between 20 to 30 ft tall and wide.

Although it looks unlike many other trees, the Redbud is a member of the Fabaceae (Legume or Pea) family. After flowering, it develops flat, bean-like, brown seed pods.

Redbud tolerates many soil types (sand, loam, clay), but the soil should be well-drained. It does poorly in perpetually soggy or compacted soils. Full sun to partial shade. The best flowering occurs in full sun. However, in hot climates like ours, afternoon shade is much appreciated. It can tolerate a lot of shade, but will grow more slowly, like most woodland trees. Water regularly until established. Redbud is drought-tolerant when mature, but benefits from watering during extended dry periods.

Eastern Redbud seeds have double dormancy: a hard seed coat (physical dormancy) and an internal chemical dormancy (physiological dormancy). Both must be overcome for successful germination.

Scarification (Breaking the Hard Seed Coat) Method: Gently nick or file a small part of the hard seed coat using a knife, file, or medium-grit sandpaper. Do not cut into the embryo. This allows the seed to absorb water.  After scarification, soak seeds in warm water for 24 hours. Seeds that successfully swell are ready for the next step.

Cold-Moist Stratification (Breaking Internal Dormancy). This step mimics the seeds' natural need for a cold winter period. Use the winter sowing technique or 60 to 90 days before you plan to sow in the spring, mix the scarified, soaked seeds with a small amount of moist (not soggy) media (sand, peat moss, or vermiculite). Place the mixture in a labeled, sealed plastic bag or container. Store in your refrigerator for 60 to 90 days.

Sow immediately after the cold period, either in individual pots or directly into a prepared garden spot in early spring. Sow seeds about 1/4 inch deep (0.6 cm).Germination: Keep the soil moist and be patient; germination can still be erratic and may take several weeks.

💖 Interesting Facts & Uses

• Redbud uses cauliflory: The beautiful magenta-pink flowers emerge directly from the bare wood of the branches, trunk, and even older stems, a botanical phenomenon known as cauliflory.

• Edible Blossoms: Redbud flowers are edible and have a slightly tart, citrusy flavor! They can be used as a garnish in salads, mixed into pancakes, or added to baked goods.

• Heart-Shaped Leaves: After the stunning spring flower show, the tree is covered in striking, perfectly heart-shaped green leaves that provide excellent texture and shade all summer long, turning golden-yellow in the fall.