Cercis canadensis

Eastern Redbud

A small, deciduous ornamental tree celebrated for its early spring display of rosy pink to lavender flowers that appear along bare branches before leaf-out. Glossy, heart-shaped green leaves follow, providing a soft canopy through summer and turning yellow in fall. Eastern redbud is a classic native tree valued for its seasonal beauty, adaptability, and wildlife benefits.

Size: 20–30 ft wide × 20–30 ft tall

Zones: 4a–9b
Light: Full sun to partial shade
Soil: Well-drained soils; adaptable to loam and clay
Water: Moderate; drought tolerant once established

Suitable Conditions:



Climate: Performs well across a wide range of temperate climates



Exposure: Morning sun with afternoon shade preferred in hotter regions



Soil pH: Slightly acidic to neutral



Drainage: Important; avoid poorly drained or waterlogged soils



Spacing: Allow room for natural branching and canopy spread



Notes:



Shape: Upright to spreading with a rounded or vase-shaped crown; often multi-stemmed



Excellent native tree for pollinators and wildlife



Strong early-season floral interest



Ideal for lawns, woodland edges, and naturalized landscapes



Minimal pruning needed beyond structural training

Plant type

Flowering Ornamental Tree

Height

20-30'

Width

20-30'

Hardiness zones

4–9

Sunlight

Full Sun, Full sun to part shade

Growth rate

Moderate

Bloom time

Early Spring, Spring

Flower color

Red

Fall color

Yellow

Attracts

Bees butterflies birds

Soil

Clay, Loamy, Moist well-drained

Landscape use

Accent Plant, Specimen

Shape

Rounded, Spreading, Upright

Bark

Fissured

Fruit

Yes

Fragrant

Yes

Drought tolerant

No