Species

Cercis canadensisRedbud

21 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Midnight Express Redbud

Cercis canadensis 'Midnight Express'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cercis canadensis is a small, deciduous understory tree native to eastern North America, celebrated for its profuse, pea-like flowers that bloom on bare branches in early spring. It has distinctive heart-shaped leaves.

'Midnight Express' features intense, dark purple foliage that holds its color well through summer, unlike some other purple-leaf redbuds. It has an upright, vase-shaped habit and produces vibrant pink-lavender flowers.

Uses & Benefits:

A stunning specimen tree offering three seasons of interest with its vibrant spring flowers, deep purple summer foliage that holds its color, and attractive yellow fall color. Its manageable size is ideal for modern landscapes.

Its small stature makes it suitable for planting near patios, in courtyards, or under utility lines where larger trees would not fit. The dense summer canopy provides filtered shade.

The early spring flowers are a vital, early-season nectar source for bees, butterflies, and other emerging pollinators. It is a host plant for the larvae of the Henry's Elfin butterfly.

SpeciesCercis canadensisRedbud

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

270"

Width

270"

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

20-40 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic to humans and pets.

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with well-drained soil and good sun exposure.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible.
Backfill with native soil and water deeply to settle.
Water consistently for the first year to establish a strong root system.
Mulch around the base, but keep it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location protected from harsh afternoon sun in hotter climates to maintain the best leaf color and prevent scorch.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good drainage; redbuds dislike 'wet feet'.
Water during prolonged dry spells, even when established.
Prune only after flowering to avoid removing flower buds.
Protect young trees from deer browsing.

Don't

Do not plant too deep; keep the root flare at or above soil level.
Avoid transplanting established trees as they have a deep taproot.
Do not prune in fall or winter, as this can lead to dieback.
Avoid high-nitrogen fertilizers which can inhibit flowering.

Seasonal Care Calendar

Task	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Dramatic dark-leaved specimen treeColorful understory accent in woodland gardensSmall-scale flowering tree for patios and small yards

Companion Plants

Helleborus orientalis Narcissus spp.Tiarella cordifolia Brunnera macrophylla 'Jack Frost'Heuchera 'Dolce Wildberry'

Good to Know

Common Questions

Midnight Express Redbud questions

What zones can Midnight Express Redbud grow in?

Midnight Express 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 Midnight Express Redbud deer resistant?

Yes — Midnight Express Redbud is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Midnight Express Redbud bloom?

Midnight Express 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 Midnight Express Redbud need full sun?

Midnight Express Redbud does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Midnight Express Redbud drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Midnight Express Redbud handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.