treeN. America Native

Eastern Redbud

Name: Eastern Redbud
Brand: Cercis
Availability: InStock

Cercis canadensis 'Black Pearl'

$144.00

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

240 inches

Width

300 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Moderate

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

20-40 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

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. 'Black Pearl' is a remarkable cultivar featuring intense, dark purple-black, glossy foliage that is very slow to fade in summer heat, unlike many other purple-leaved varieties. It produces abundant lavender-pink flowers before the leaves emerge.

Bloom Period:

EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

'Black Pearl' is a showstopper, providing three seasons of intense color. It begins with a profusion of bright lavender-pink flowers on bare stems, followed by the emergence of its incredibly dark, glossy purple leaves. The foliage holds its color exceptionally well through summer, creating a dramatic contrast with surrounding greenery.

As a small-statured tree, it is perfectly suited for modern, smaller landscapes, courtyards, and as a focal point in mixed borders. Its tolerance of a range of soil types makes it a versatile choice for many gardens.

As a native tree, it provides significant ecological benefits. The early spring flowers are a crucial, early food source for native bees, including bumblebees and mason bees. It is also a host plant for the larvae of the Henry's Elfin butterfly.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

Fast Growing Trees

In Stock$144.00

Sooner Plant Farm

1+ Gal Pot

In Stock$185.00

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Planting

How to Grow

Choose a site with well-drained soil; redbuds dislike 'wet feet'.
Full sun in the north, partial shade in the south is ideal.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the root ball but no deeper.
Set the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible at the soil line.
Backfill with native soil and water thoroughly to settle.
Water consistently during the first two years to establish a strong root system.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with afternoon shade in hot climates to help the dark foliage retain its best color.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good drainage.
Mulch to keep the root zone cool and moist.
Water during prolonged summer droughts.
Allow the tree to develop its natural, graceful form.

Don't

Do not plant in a waterlogged or poorly drained site.
Avoid excessive pruning; redbuds require little.
Do not fertilize heavily; a spring application of compost is sufficient.
Avoid damaging the thin bark with string trimmers or mowers.

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

High-contrast specimen treeStunning understory accentSmall yard or courtyard focal point

Companion Plants

Cornus florida Helleborus orientalis Tiarella cordifolia Phlox divaricata Carex pensylvanica

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Eastern Redbud questions

What zones can Eastern Redbud grow in?

Eastern 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 Eastern Redbud deer resistant?

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

When does Eastern Redbud bloom?

Eastern 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 Eastern Redbud need full sun?

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