Hearts A'Fire Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Hearts A'Fire'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Shrub
Height
156 inches
Width
156 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Moderate, drought-tolerant once established
Humidity
Prefers moderate humidity
Lifespan
Decades
Native To
North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic to humans and pets
The Story
Plant Bio
A small, deciduous, often multi-trunked understory tree with a rounded crown. Features clusters of tiny, pea-like, rosy-pink flowers that bloom profusely on bare branches in early spring before the foliage emerges. Heart-shaped leaves follow the flowers. A distinctive cultivar noted for its multi-toned foliage. New leaves emerge burgundy-red, maturing to a reddish-green, and finally to dark green. This creates a dynamic, colorful effect throughout the growing season as new growth contrasts with older leaves.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a sunny location with well-drained soil for planting.
- Tuck seeds or young plants into the ground early in spring after the last frost.
- Water thoroughly after planting to establish roots, maintaining moist soil.
- Mist cuttings regularly to keep humidity high and promote rooting.
- Fertilize in early spring with a balanced, slow-release fertilizer.
- Prune lightly in late winter to shape and remove dead or damaged branches.
Pro Tip
Ensure good drainage and avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water during dry spells 🌱
- Prune in late winter for shape and health
- Apply mulch to retain moisture and suppress weeds
- Fertilize annually with a balanced fertilizer
Don't
- Avoid overwatering ❌
- Do not prune in late summer or fall
- Refrain from planting in poorly drained soil
- Avoid excessive fertilization which can promote weak growth
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Plant | ||||||||||||
| Prune | ||||||||||||
| Spring Cleanup |
Watch Out For
Pests & Diseases
Common Pests
Common Diseases
In the Garden
Landscape Uses & Companions
Landscape Uses
Companion Plants
Multiply
Propagation Methods
Good to Know
Common Questions
Hearts A'Fire Redbud questions
What zones can Hearts A'Fire Redbud grow in?
Hearts A'Fire Redbud is hardy in USDA Zones 5–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.
Is Hearts A'Fire Redbud deer resistant?
Yes — Hearts A'Fire Redbud is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Hearts A'Fire Redbud bloom?
Hearts A'Fire Redbud typically blooms in early spring through mid-spring. Exact timing shifts a week or two with your zone — Sow's bloom calendar maps it to your garden.
Does Hearts A'Fire Redbud need full sun?
Hearts A'Fire Redbud does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Hearts A'Fire Redbud drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hearts A'Fire Redbud handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
More Cercis to compare
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Cercis canadensis 'Lavender Twist'
Eastern Redbud Forest Pansy
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
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Cercis canadensis 'Pink Pom Poms'
The Rising Sun Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Rise 'N Shine'
Amethyst Mist Weeping Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Amethyst'
Flame Thrower Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Flame Thrower'
Keep exploring
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