Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree

Cercis canadensis 'NC2016-2'

Nature Hills Nursery

Flame Thrower® Redbud Delivers Four Seasons of Color: Magenta Blooms, Burgundy Foliage, Then Chartreuse-to-Gold Leaves
Thrives in Zones 5-9
Native, Pollinator-Friendly - Attracts Bees and Butterflies
Stunning Yellow Fall Foliage
Showy Purple Blooms in Early Spring

$99⁷³

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Plant Size

#2 Container 3-4 Feet

Product variants

Planting & Care

Where to Plant

Sunlight: Provide at least six hours of direct sun to achieve the most vibrant color transitions from burgundy to gold. While it tolerates partial shade, the foliage will lean more toward a solid green and lose that signature "flame" effect without enough light.
Soil: This tree prefers well drained soil that retains consistent moisture without becoming a swamp. For heavy clay or "gumbo" soils, plant the tree in a slightly raised mound to ensure the root flare stays above the water line and prevents root rot.

Watering Requirements

During the first two growing seasons, give your tree a deep soaking twice a week to help the root system reach deep into the ground. Once established, the Flame Thrower is moderately drought tolerant, but inconsistent watering during extreme heat can cause the leaf margins to curl or scorch. Maintaining a steady schedule ensures the foliage stays lush and the tree avoids the stress that leads to stunted growth.

Pruning Tips

Since redbuds bloom on old wood, you should only prune your tree in late spring immediately after the flowers have finished. Pruning too late in the year will remove the buds for next spring and ruin your floral display. Use sharp shears to remove any crossing branches or "suckers" growing from the base to keep the canopy open and the energy focused on the main trunk.

Fertilizer Needs

Apply a balanced, slow release fertilizer in early spring just as the flower buds begin to swell. Avoid using high nitrogen fertilizers after midsummer because this triggers a flush of tender new growth that cannot harden off before winter. This soft growth is easily killed by the first frost, which leaves the tree vulnerable to pests and diseases the following year.

Delivery and Shipping

Shipping Rates

Ships in 7-10 business days • Tracking provided • Weather protected

Under $50	$9.99
$50 - $99.99	$14.99
$100 - $149.99	$16.99
$150 - $198.99	$24.99
$199+	FREE

✓ Zone-specific timing • ✓ Professional packaging • ✓ Health guarantee

Understanding Our Container Sizes

At Nature Hills, our plants are sold in industry-standard nursery containers. You will notice we use the word "container" rather than "gallon." Container numbers follow a nursery trade size standard, not liquid volume. The number tells you the plant's size category and general maturity level. A larger container means a more established plant with a stronger root system.

Container Sizes

Quart

Plant age: 6 months to 1 year
Best for: Ground covers, perennials, ornamental grasses
What to expect: Our smallest and most affordable size. Well-suited for planting in multiples across a large area. Allow 1 to 2 seasons for full establishment.

#1 Container

Plant age: 1 to 2 years
Best for: Shrubs, perennials, smaller trees
What to expect: About the size of a large coffee can. A well-developed root system in a manageable size. Good value choice when you have time to let the plant grow into the space over a season or two.

#2 Container

Plant age: 2 to 3 years
Best for: Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment
What to expect: A noticeable step up from a #1 in both plant size and root development. Good choice when you want visible presence without going to a larger size.

#3 Container

Plant age: 3 to 4 years
Best for: Most plants, most situations — flowering trees, shade trees, evergreen shrubs
What to expect: Our most popular size. Strong, developed root system. Plants in a #3 container make an immediate visual impact from day one. If you want a head start rather than waiting seasons for a plant to fill in, this is typically the right choice.

#5 Container and Larger

Plant age: 4 to 5+ years
Best for: Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact
What to expect: Large, mature plants ready to make an immediate statement in your landscape. We also carry #7 and larger sizes for select varieties.

Why "Container" and Not "Gallon"?

Nursery container sizes follow an industry trade standard established for the nursery and horticulture industry. The number is a size designation, not a measurement of liquid volume. Actual soil volume varies by plant type, root mass, and growing medium. Using "container" is the accurate industry term. When you see #1, #2, or #3, think of it as the plant's size tier, not a gallon measurement.

Root Pouch Containers

Some Nature Hills plants arrive in a Root Pouch, a breathable fabric container made from 100% recycled materials. Root Pouches encourage denser root development through air pruning, which discourages root circling and promotes a stronger, more fibrous root ball at the time of planting.

Plants growing in Root Pouch fabric containers, showing the breathable woven fabric construction

There are two types. Knowing which one you have changes how you plant:

Degradable (brown or tan fabric): Plant the entire pouch directly in the ground. The fabric breaks down naturally in the soil over time.
Non-degradable (black or gray fabric): Remove the pouch before planting. Cut the bottom open with scissors, then peel the sides away. The fibrous root ball will hold its shape.

Not sure which type you have? Check the tag on your plant or contact us and we will confirm.

Full Root Pouch planting guide

Choosing the Right Size

Size	Plant Age	Best For
Quart	6 mo to 1 yr	Ground covers, perennials, grasses. Budget-friendly for mass plantings.
#1 Container	1 to 2 yrs	Shrubs, perennials, small trees. Value choice for patient gardeners.
#2 Container	2 to 3 yrs	Shrubs and trees where you want faster establishment.
#3 Container	3 to 4 yrs	Most plants. Immediate visual impact. Our most popular size.
#5 and larger	4+ yrs	Specimen plants, privacy screens, maximum instant impact.

Still not sure which size is right for your project? Our plant specialists are happy to help. Contact us and we will point you in the right direction.

Plant specifications
Plant Characteristics	Cold hardy, Fall Color/Interest, Flowering, Attracts pollinators, Heat Tolerant, Drought resistant, Disease resistant, Fast-growing, Fragrant
Hardiness Zone	4a, 4b, 5a, 5b, 6a, 6b, 7a, 7b, 8a, 8b, 9a, 9b
Sunlight	Full sun, Partial shade
Height	15-20 ft
Width	12-15 ft
Watering Needs	Moderate
Preferred Soil	Clay, Loamy, Peaty, Sandy
Growth Rate	Moderate
Blooms In	Spring
Flower Color	Purple
Native	Yes
Suitable Space	Outdoors
Botanical Name	Cercis canadensis 'NC2016-2'
Species	canadensis
Cultivar	NC2016-2
Class	Magnoliopsida
Does Not Ship To	AK, HI, ID, MT, PR

Bright, Powerful Accent Flame Thrower® Redbud

People's Choice Award Winner
Outstanding Early Spring Flower Display on Bare Branches
Pea-Like Flowers Are Reddish-Purple
New Heart-Shaped Foliage Emerges Strong Burgundy Red
Foliage Matures to Vivid Chartreuse, Red-Orange, Orange-Yellow and Green
Each Leaf Color is Different on Every Branch
Compact Ornamental Tree
Wonderful Accent, or Shade Tree For Small Spaces
Modern Cultivar of a Native Tree
Fetching Semi-Pendulous Branch Structure
Four Seasons of Interest
Disease-Resistant
Displays Minimal Leaf Scorch
Widely Adapted & Easy to Grow

This must-have ornamental Redbud tree hits the bulls-eye. These easy-care trees take aim and score colorful, high-style points.

The Flame Thrower® Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'NC2016-2') delivers a shot of color that keeps coming throughout the entire growing season. Fire up your landscape design with these compact, well-balanced trees.

This ornamental tree is an improved cultivar of the native Redbud. It's a perfect fit in small yards and delivers maximum "firepower" all year long.

Start your spring off right with Flame Thrower® Redbud. Keep your eye on the bare branches for swollen buds that hit big. Pea-shaped, pink flowers cover all the wood, even the trunk!

This incendiary flower lasts for several weeks. People in your neighborhood will ask you about this special modern tree!

Use one with pride in your front yard foundation planting. Just understand that you'll want more than one, once you see the amazing foliage display that follows the flowers.

Dramatically dark burgundy leaves emerge once the flowers have passed. As the leaves age, they turn a hot mix of yellow, orange, lime green, and red.

The tree's canopy changes from week to week in a never-ending color explosion. Those eye-catching leaves hang from long petioles and drift and move in the wind!

Flame Thrower® Redbud is a real rush to own. Add one or several to your landscape this season.

The expert Nature Hills grower team will ship a professional-grade tree right to your doorstep. Nothing could be easier!

How to Use Flame Thrower® Redbud in the Landscape

Count on this tree to become the focal point of your landscape. Front yard, side yard, backyard — you'll find many different places to use a Flame Thrower®.

Complete the look with effective, easy-care choices of small shrubs and blooming perennials. Choose a range of complementary colors that pick up on the many hues of the bold foliage.

People will notice these trees, so give them a prominent position in your foundation planting. If you have a picture window, this is the tree to use in front of it. Cozy up indoors to savor the early spring blossoms.

Use one 20 feet away from the corner of your home. Or, plant two lawn trees on either side of a symmetrical front walk.

Plant them in a long row that runs along the street. They'll fit well under utility wires! You may have the space to use them along the length of your fence line or a wider side yard to define your property.

Or, create a personal space in your backyard. These "destination zones" are worth their weight in gold.

Include one on the southwest side of a children's outdoor play structure to provide much-needed shade. Your child will forever be fascinated by the ever-changing foliage color display.

Decorate a corner by the shed to help hide the garbage cans. Add some cute seating in front of it, with a low-slung outdoor table to hold your pitcher of margaritas.

Plant an informal grouping of three trees loosely spaced 30 to 40 feet apart. Place a hammock stand or two, or add a fire ring and a circle of tree stumps in between trees.

You'll love your new garden feature! Flame Thrower® is a very versatile tree that will work just about anywhere. Bump up the interest wherever you place it.

Use a row of them behind your patio seating as an incredible "living wall". You'll love the privacy!

They also make beautiful, multi-colored backdrops to perennial gardens. Try adding them in front of existing windbreaks to fire up the visual interest.

Flame Thrower® Redbud brings butterflies and beneficial pollinators to visit. They appreciate the early nectar resource.

Why not make your trees work for you? Add near your Victory Garden or backyard orchard. They easily hide the more utilitarian areas of those hard-working kitchen gardens.

#ProPlantTips for Care

Redbud trees require well-drained soil but can adapt well to many different types of soil.

Be sure to include a pack of Nature Hills Root Booster in your order. It will help your tree access water and micronutrients over its entire lifespan.

For the best leaf color and maximum bloom, full sun is best. However, this plant can grow in part shade, too.

Ensure you provide a regular schedule of water if you don't get adequate rainfall. Adding a three-inch layer of mulch on top of the root system will cut down on surface evaporation. Please pull the mulch away from touching the trunk.

It may take some time for your new Redbud to fully leaf out in spring. Be patient with your young trees. Don't worry, those multi-colored leaves are well worth the wait!

Can be grown as a smaller single-stem tree form by trimming lower limbs back to the main trunk. Leave as-is to create a low-branched or multiple-stem shrub form plant for screening or backdrop for your mixed border.

Add the powerful Flame Thrower® Redbud in your landscape this year. Just hurry, this is a very desirable variety bred at the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University. It will sell out quickly!

Explore More from Nature Hills

The Flame Thrower® Redbud is an excellent addition to any collection of flowering trees, and you'll find many complementary varieties among our selection of redbud trees and native plants. For comprehensive care information and variety comparisons, check out our #ProPlantTips: Best Redbud Tree Varieties & Care Guide. Browse our complete selection of trees to discover other species that pair beautifully with redbuds in your landscape design.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What USDA hardiness zones is the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree suitable for?

The Flame Thrower Redbud Tree is hardy in USDA zones 4-9, making it widely adaptable across most temperate regions. As an improved cultivar of the native Eastern Redbud, it tolerates both cold winters and hot summers well. Check your specific zone to ensure this colorful ornamental will thrive in your area.

What is the mature height and spread of the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree?

The Flame Thrower Redbud typically reaches 15-20 feet tall with a 15-20 foot spread at maturity. This compact ornamental tree is specifically bred for smaller spaces while delivering maximum visual impact. Perfect for front yard foundations or as an accent tree where space is limited.

What are the soil requirements and planting instructions for the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree?

Flame Thrower Redbud thrives in well-draining soil and adapts to various conditions, from acidic to alkaline pH. This disease-resistant native cultivar tolerates both full sun and partial shade locations. Plant in spring or fall, dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball, and water deeply after planting to establish strong roots.

How much sun or shade does the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree need, and how does light affect its leaf colors?

Flame Thrower Redbud performs best in full sun to partial shade for optimal flowering and foliage color development. While it tolerates some shade as a native cultivar, more sunlight intensifies the dramatic burgundy-to-chartreuse color transitions throughout the season. Plant in a location with at least 4-6 hours of direct sunlight daily for the most vibrant leaf display.

When is the best time to prune the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree, and what should I avoid?

Prune Flame Thrower Redbud immediately after spring flowering ends to avoid removing next year's buds. Avoid pruning in fall or winter since this tree blooms on old wood. Make clean cuts and remove only dead, damaged, or crossing branches to maintain its natural semi-pendulous form.

What pests and diseases affect the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree, like canker or verticillium wilt?

Flame Thrower Redbud is disease-resistant and displays minimal leaf scorch compared to other redbuds. As an improved cultivar of native Cercis canadensis, it has better resistance to common redbud issues like canker and verticillium wilt. Ensure proper drainage and avoid overwatering to maintain its natural disease resistance.

How do I treat canker or other fungal issues on my Flame Thrower Redbud Tree?

Flame Thrower Redbud is naturally disease-resistant with minimal leaf scorch issues. For canker, prune affected branches during dormancy using sterilized tools and improve air circulation. Apply copper-based fungicide in early spring before bud break if fungal problems persist.

How is the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree shipped—bare root or in pots with soil?

Flame Thrower Redbud trees are shipped in containers with soil, not bare root. This allows the root system to remain established and reduces transplant shock. Plant container trees spring through fall when soil can be worked.

What is the warranty or guarantee if the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree arrives dead or dies shortly after?

Nature Hills offers a one-year guarantee on all trees, including the Flame Thrower Redbud. If your tree arrives damaged or fails to establish within the first growing season, you're covered for replacement. Contact customer service with photos and your order details to process any warranty claims.

Can the Flame Thrower Redbud Tree handle drought once established, and how often should I water it?

Flame Thrower Redbud has good drought tolerance once established, typically after 2-3 years. Water deeply once weekly during dry spells, allowing soil to dry between waterings. Mulch around the base to retain moisture and reduce watering needs.