Start growing
Prefers partial shade in hot climates. adaptable to many soil types.
GROW SOMETHING WONDERFUL
American Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Your guide to planting, growing, and getting to know this plant.
THE PLANT NOTEBOOK
American Redbud care, from seed onward.
- Botanical name
- Cercis canadensis
- Common names
- Judas Tree (relative)
- Family
- Fabaceae
- Genus
- Cercis
- Species
- C. canadensis
Growing with your kit
The Seeds In A Cup® kit provides a front-row seat to the Redbud's amazing heart-shaped leaf development.
Propagation
By seed (needs scarification) or softwood cuttings.
Seasonal growth & harvest
Flower emerge in early spring before heart-shaped leaves; spectacular fall foliage.
Growing conditions
Understory tree in moist forests and along rocky bluffs.
Weather & tolerances
Moderate drought tolerance; low salt tolerance.
Pests & plant health
Leafhoppers and Verticillium wilt.
Plant safety
Safe; flowers are edible.
Botanical features
A small deciduous tree famous for its vibrant pink/purple pea-like flowers that bloom directly on the bark (cauliflory).
Varieties
‘Forest Pansy’ (Purple leaves), ‘Appalachian Red’.
Garden & everyday uses
highly valued ornamental. flowers are edible (high in Vitamin C) and can be used in salads
Native range & distribution
Eastern USA, ranging from New Jersey to Florida and west to Texas.
Conservation
Secure.
Name origins
From the Greek ‘kerkis’ (weaver's shuttle), referring to the shape of the seed pods.
History
First noted in botanical records by Thomas Jefferson at Monticello.