Cercis canadensis 'Greswan'
treeN. America Native

Burgundy Hearts Redbud

Cercis canadensis 'Greswan'

Not currently listed at our partner nurseries.

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Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

270 inches

Width

330 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

Relatively short-lived tree (20-40 years)

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

The Story

Plant Bio

Eastern Redbud 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. 'Greswan', sold as BURGUNDY HEARTS, is distinguished by its glossy, deep reddish-purple heart-shaped leaves that emerge after the flowers. It holds its rich color well through the summer heat before turning shades of yellow in fall.

Bloom Period:

J
F
M
A
M
J
J
A
S
O
N
D
EarlyLate

Uses & Benefits:

Ornamental UsesOffers multi-season interest with a spectacular show of magenta flowers on bare branches in spring, followed by glossy, heart-shaped purple leaves that hold their color all summer. The graceful, spreading habit provides an elegant silhouette.
Practical UsesIts small stature makes it an ideal tree for smaller landscapes, patios, and courtyards where a larger tree would not fit. It can be used as a single specimen or planted in groups for a dramatic effect.
Ecological BenefitsAs a native tree, its early spring flowers are a vital, early food source for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. Birds also enjoy the shelter it provides.

Marketplace

Where to Buy

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Planting

How to Grow

  1. Choose a site with well-drained soil and full sun or light shade.
  2. Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball but no deeper.
  3. Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is at or above ground level.
  4. Backfill with the original soil, breaking up any large clumps.
  5. Water deeply to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets.
  6. Apply a 2-3 inch layer of mulch, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with afternoon shade in hot southern climates to help the purple foliage retain its best color throughout the summer.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

  • Provide supplemental water during prolonged dry periods, especially when young.
  • Mulch the root zone to keep soil cool and moist.
  • Protect the thin bark of young trees from mechanical damage.
  • Allow the tree to develop its natural, graceful form.
  • Plant it where its beautiful spring flowers can be appreciated.

Don't

  • Don't plant redbuds too deep; keep the root flare visible.
  • Avoid heavy pruning, as it can ruin the natural shape.
  • Don't plant in poorly drained, waterlogged soils.
  • Avoid excessive fertilization, which can lead to weak growth.
  • Don't transplant established redbuds, as they have a sensitive taproot.

Seasonal Care Calendar

TaskJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec
Mulch
Plant
Prune

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Stunning small specimen treeColorful accent in woodland gardensFocal point for patios and small yards

Companion Plants

Helleborus orientalis Tiarella cordifolia Cornus florida Narcissus (Daffodils) Phlox divaricata

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Burgundy Hearts Redbud questions

What zones can Burgundy Hearts Redbud grow in?

Burgundy Hearts 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 Burgundy Hearts Redbud deer resistant?

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

When does Burgundy Hearts Redbud bloom?

Burgundy Hearts 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 Burgundy Hearts Redbud need full sun?

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

Is Burgundy Hearts Redbud drought tolerant?

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

Keep exploring

Grow Burgundy Hearts 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.

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