
Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Appalachian Red'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
240 inches
Width
300 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Adaptable
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, famous for its profuse pea-like flowers that bloom on bare branches in early spring. 'Appalachian Red' is noted for its intensely vibrant, fuchsia-pink to magenta flowers, which are much deeper and brighter in color than the typical lavender-pink of the species.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a location with full sun to light shade and well-drained soil.
- Dig a planting hole that is twice as wide as the root ball.
- Set the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at soil level.
- Backfill with the soil you removed, watering to remove air pockets.
- Water deeply and consistently for the first growing season.
- Apply a layer of mulch to protect the roots and retain moisture.
Pro Tip
Site where its stunning spring flower display can be appreciated against a dark background, like evergreens or a building.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during establishment and in periods of drought.
- Mulch well to keep the root zone cool and moist.
- Prune out any dead or crossing branches right after flowering.
- Plant in a location with good air circulation to discourage disease.
Don't
- Avoid transplanting established trees as they have a sensitive taproot.
- Do not wound the bark with mowers or trimmers.
- Avoid planting in poorly drained, waterlogged soils.
- Do not perform heavy pruning in late summer or fall.
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
Companion Plants
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 4–9. 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.
Is Eastern Redbud drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Eastern Redbud handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.
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