Cercis canadensis

RHS Plant Profile
eastern redbud

Other common names

American Judas tree, American redbud, North American redbud, redbud

Trees

A deciduous, spreading, often multi-stemmed tree to 10m, with papery, heart-shaped leaves, bronze when young and turning yellow in autumn. Pink flowers, 1cm long, are borne in clusters of 2-8 on bare stems before the leaves

Position

Full sun, Partial shade

Soil Types

Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand

Max Height

8-12 metres

Max Spread

4-8 metres

Size

Time to Maturity
20–50 years
Max Spread
4-8 metres
Max Height
8-12 metres

Growing Conditions

Chalk Clay Loam Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid or Alkaline or Neutral

Position

Full sun Partial shade
Aspect
South–facing or West–facing or East–facing
Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5

Colour & Scent

Season Stem Flower Foliage Fruit
Spring
Summer
Autumn
Winter

Botanical Details

Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB/Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Spreading branched
Genus
Cercis are deciduous shrubs or small trees with heart-shaped leaves and clusters of bright pink pea-flowers opening before or with the leaves, followed by flattened, deep purple pods
Name Status
Correct
Plant Range
North America

How to Grow

Cultivation

Grow in deep, fertile, moist but well-drained soil in full sun or dappled shade

Propagation

Propagate by sowing seed in containers in a cold frame in autumn

Suggested planting locations and garden types

  • Architectural
  • Low Maintenance

Pruning

See pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to leafhoppers and scale insects

Diseases

May be susceptible to verticillium wilt, coral spot and honey fungus