Best Redbud Varieties And Cultivars For Native Plant Gardens

20.08.2023 - 01:05 / gardeningknowhow.com / Mary Ellen Ellis

Eastern redbud is a popular landscaping tree for many reasons. It grows in a variety of conditions. It doesn’t grow too large. It’s a native species in many states. But, most importantly for many homeowners, redbuds produce a stunning display of early spring flowers. The popularity of the tree has led to the development of many eastern redbud cultivars with varied colors and forms.

Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a small flowering tree native to most of the eastern U.S. and part of Mexico. It is one of two North American species of redbud, the other being western redbud. Eastern redbud grows to 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 m) tall and has a broad crown. Leaves are about four inches (10 cm) long and heart shaped. The flowers are usually pink but can also be lavender or white. The seeds develop in flat pods.

There are two additional varieties of eastern redbud that vary a little bit from the typical specimen. Some experts feel they should be separate species:

Redbuds are a good size even for small yards. They like well-drained soil but are not too picky and will tolerate drought. This makes them easy to grow, but the flowers are the main draw. Resembling pea flowers, they bloom thickly in spring, developing directly on stems and even on the trunk.

As a popular landscaping choice, it’s no surprise there are many cultivars. Eastern redbud varieties play with tree form, flower color, and foliage color:

This cultivar has striking, deep reddish-purple leaves. They fade to green during the summer. The hotter the weather, the faster the color fades. Flowers are a pinkish-purple.

Another variety with deep red leaves. The flowers are a pinkish lavender color.

Hearts of Gold has yellow leaves. Like Forest Pansy, the unique leaf coloring