Hearts of Gold Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Hearts Of Gold'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
180 inches
Width
216 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Medium
Humidity
Average
Lifespan
20-40 years
Native To
Eastern North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Cercis canadensis, or Eastern Redbud, is a small, deciduous understory tree native to eastern North America, celebrated for its profusion of pea-like flowers that bloom on bare branches in early spring. 'Hearts of Gold' is a stunning cultivar featuring heart-shaped leaves that emerge reddish-bronze, mature to a brilliant chartreuse-gold, and resist sun-scorch better than other golden-leaved varieties.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
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Planting
How to Grow
- Choose a site with well-drained soil and good air circulation.
- Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball.
- Position the tree so the top of the root ball is level with the soil.
- Backfill the hole with the original soil, gently tamping it down.
- Water thoroughly after planting to settle the soil.
- Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, avoiding contact with the trunk.
Pro Tip
Provide afternoon shade in hotter climates to prevent leaf scorch and maintain the best gold color.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Water regularly during the first year to establish a deep root system.
- Provide supplemental water during prolonged droughts.
- Prune to remove deadwood and improve structure while the tree is young.
- Test soil pH and amend if necessary for optimal health.
Don't
- Do not plant in poorly drained or waterlogged soils.
- Avoid heavy fertilization, which can promote weak growth.
- Don't prune major branches after the tree has leafed out.
- Never pile mulch against the trunk, as it can cause rot.
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mulch | ||||||||||||
| Pest Check | ||||||||||||
| 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
Hearts of Gold Redbud questions
What zones can Hearts of Gold Redbud grow in?
Hearts of Gold 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 Hearts of Gold Redbud deer resistant?
Yes — Hearts of Gold Redbud is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.
When does Hearts of Gold Redbud bloom?
Hearts of Gold 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 of Gold Redbud need full sun?
Hearts of Gold Redbud does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Hearts of Gold Redbud drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Hearts of Gold 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
Lavender Twist Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Lavender Twist'
Eastern Redbud Forest Pansy
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Eastern Redbud Pink Pom Poms
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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Grow Hearts of Gold Redbud with confidence
See it in a design of your actual yard, get zone-matched care reminders, and track it season by season in your garden journal.
