It is spring and masses of florescent, lavender blooms outline the branches of the Eastern Redbud. On a rainy spring day, a Redbud in bloom almost seems to glow, making it a superb addition to one’s spring garden. Their beauty does not stop in the spring however, as the blooms fade they are followed by large dark-green heart-shaped leaves and its open irregular shape lends to a beautiful display on a snowy winter day. Being a small ornamental tree allows the Redbud to fit into almost any landscape, whether that is as an accent on the corner of a home or planted along the edge of a wooded, naturalized setting.
The Eastern Redbud, Cercis canadensis, tree is a small, often multi-stemmed, tree with a broad, rounded crown. It's a low maintenance plant and should not be transplanted. It has relatively large, heart-shaped leaves that are rich and bold purple color. It has moderate growth and grows to be about 25 feet tall and 25 feet wide. It likes full sun to part shade. It grows best in well-drained soils, showy flowers, good fall color, attracts butterflies, and tolerates deer and clay soils.
In parts of Wisconsin, Redbuds can be marginally hardy, however, McKay Nursery’s ‘Columbus Strain’ has proven to be the hardiest of Redbud strains through multiple fields and laboratory tests. To this day, we harvest seeds from the original trees planted in Columbus, WI; some having been planted well over 100 years ago! The Eastern Redbud grows best away from prevailing winds, in full sun to partial shade. It also prefers moist, well-drained soils, but will thrive in most soils. At maturity, this tree will reach 15-20 feet tall and wide. Make room for this spring sparkler in your landscape for its spectacular floral display. The Redbud will not disappoint you.