Western Redbud Tree

There are very few trees that can compare to the seasonal interest of the Western Redbud Tree (Cercis occidentalis). These well-known and highly ornamental small trees are beautiful in each and every season!

In the spring, they begin their show by smothering the naked limbs in rosy lavender-red buds (hence the name!). Since they bloom before most other trees begin to leaf out - even before they leaf out themselves - they are stunningly eye-catching in the early spring garden! Early-emerging pollinators seeking an early feast will find plenty of nectar with these pea-like blossoms!

In the summer, the buds are gone and are replaced with romantic heart-shaped leaves that start out apple-green and turn a lovely shade of blue-green as they age. Long seed pods emerge and ripen to a rich purple-brown and feed your birds.

In the fall, the leaves turn shades of gold and bring a true "autumn" feel to the landscape. Then the smooth silver-gray bark and zig-zagging stems make the branches shine against the winter landscape of gray and snowy days.

Landscape Application:

These small trees will fit into just about any garden. They also fit into just about any garden style, too. We've seen them look like watercolor paintings in Japanese-inspired and Zen gardens and like fireworks in contemporary settings!

They are classic cottage garden border trees since they don't take over and shade the border too much and change with the perennial plantings every season. They also can look rustic or eclectic, depending on the setting. Western Redbuds are truly versatile!

Grown as either a single-stem, multi-stemmed, or shrub-form tree depending on your preferences! Try growing yours as a specimen for curb appeal or as screening, property division, and privacy groupings!

It is the perfect little shade or accent tree, used almost anywhere in the landscape. One would look lovely in a formal setting by your patio or walkway. Or, create a feature out of a larger planting. Use 3, 5, or 7 trees in a woodland setting, easily naturalizing, and rambling throughout the canopy of larger trees, not minding a touch of afternoon shade. This natural understory tree will lend an incredible wilderness effect.

• Vibrant Pink Blossoms
• Apple-Green Heart-Shaped Foliage
• Versatile Small Flowering Tree
• Four-Seasons of Interest
• Western American Native Selection

#ProPlantTips for Care:

Plant your Redbud in full sun in cooler climates, but you can grow yours in some partial/afternoon shade in the hottest growing zones. It is adapted to many soil types, including clay or sandy, and is not sensitive to soil pH. Provide regular moisture access for new trees, but Western Redbud becomes drought tolerant once established.

Keep the root system cool in hot, dry climates with a 3 to 4-inch layer of shredded wood mulch, spread out 3 feet past the canopy. This tree will tolerate a considerable amount of heat once established. Trim after the flowers fade to correct growth and control size.

• Best in Full Sun or Partial Shade
• Well-Drained Soils
• Moderate Moisture Needs
• Prune After Flowering
• Deer Seldom Bother These Trees

The Western Redbud Tree is very easy-care and will reward you with beauty all year for minimal effort on your part. Don't wait! Order yours today at NatureHills.com!