#11: Eastern Redbud

Classifications

Common Name: Eastern Redbud

Scientific Name: Cercis canadensis

Family: Fabaceae (pea family)

Tree Type: Deciduous Flowering Tree

Growing Conditions 

Light: Full sun to partial shade

Water: Moderate

Soil: Well-drained soil, prefers slightly alkaline soil, adaptable to various types of soil (clay, loam, sandy soil)

Spread: 20 to 35 ft wide

Height: 20 to 40 ft tall

Bloom Time: March-April

Leaf Characteristics

Leaf Type: Simple

Leaf Blade: Cordate (heart-shaped)

Leaf Arrangement: Alternate 

Leaf Venation Pattern: Palmate

Leaf Size: 3–5 in

Interesting Facts

Fact #1:  The flowers are edible and are used in salads. 

Fact #2: The Eastern Redbud produces bright pink-purple flowers that grow on its trunks and branches called “Cauliflory”. 

Fact #3: After flowering, the Eastern Redbud produces flat, bean-like pods that stay on the tree into winter.