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Plant Profiles / Eastern redbud
Photos: Wikimedia Commons
Eastern redbud
Cercis canadensis · Redbud, Judas tree
A small native North American tree that bursts into magenta-pink blossom on bare branches in early spring, followed by heart-shaped leaves. Varieties include purple-leaved 'Forest Pansy'.
Sun to part shadeLight
Weekly when youngWater
EasyCare level
Care at a glance
Light
Sun to part shade
ShadeFull sun
Full sun to dappled shade. Afternoon shade helps in hot climates.
Water
Weekly when young
DryWet
Water regularly while establishing; moderately drought tolerant after.
Humidity
Average
LowHigh
Adaptable.
Temperature
Hardy, -30–35°C (-22–95°F)
CoolWarm
Needs a winter chill for spring flowers.
Growth
Moderate, small tree
SlowFast
Grows 6–9 m; compact varieties 2–4 m.
Soil
Well-drained
LeanRich
Adapts to most soils but dislikes waterlogging.
Fertiliser
Light, spring
RarelyOften
A light feed in spring is plenty.
Pet safety
Non-toxic
SafeToxic
Considered non-toxic to cats and dogs.
About this plant
Eastern redbud is native to eastern North America and is a key early nectar source for bees. Its heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in autumn. Weeping and compact varieties suit smaller gardens and large pots.
Best spots
Front gardens, courtyards, woodland edges and large pots (compact varieties).
Plant facts
| Botanical name | Cercis canadensis |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Origin | Eastern North America |
| Plant type | Deciduous small tree |
| Mature size | 6–9 m (2–4 m compact types) |
| Growth rate | Moderate |
| Foliage | Heart-shaped leaves, yellow in autumn |
| Flowers | Magenta-pink pea flowers on bare stems |
| Toxicity | Non-toxic to pets |
| Propagation | Seed or grafting |
Seasonal care calendar
J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
Flowering
Active growth
Autumn colour
Prune
FloweringActive growthAutumn colourPrune
Based on Southern Hemisphere seasons.
Troubleshooting
| Wilting branches | Possible verticillium wilt or canker. Prune out affected wood. |
| Few flowers | Needs more sun or winter chill. |
| Leaf scorch | Drought or heat stress. Water deeply. |
| Holes in leaves | Leafcutter bees; cosmetic. |
| Brown leaf spots | Fungal leaf spot; clear fallen leaves. |
Common questions
Can I grow it in a pot?
Yes, choose a compact or weeping variety in a large pot.
When should I prune?
Just after flowering, removing dead or crossing branches.
Are the flowers edible?
Yes, the flowers are edible and often used in salads.
Does it transplant well?
Not easily. Plant young trees in their permanent spot.
