Species

Cercis canadensisRedbud

21 other cultivars

shrubN. America Native

Traveller Redbud

Cercis canadensis 'Traveller'

The Story

Plant Bio

The Texas Redbud subspecies is noted for its smaller size, thicker, glossier leaves, and greater heat and drought tolerance than the species.

'Traveller' is a distinct weeping form with a dense, mounding habit and gracefully cascading branches, creating a living sculpture. Its glossy, leathery leaves are also a key feature.

Uses & Benefits:

'Traveller' is a living sculpture. Its weeping, cascading branches create a dramatic focal point in any garden. The profuse magenta flowers in spring are stunning, and the thick, glossy, heart-shaped leaves are highly attractive throughout the summer.

Its small, manageable size and drought tolerance make it an excellent choice for water-wise gardens, small urban spaces, rock gardens, and large containers. It offers the beauty of a redbud without the size of a standard tree.

Like other redbuds, its early spring flowers provide a vital nectar source for emerging native bees and other pollinators. The dense, weeping foliage can offer shelter for small birds.

SpeciesCercis canadensisRedbud

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Shrub

Height

60 inches

Width

108 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Low to Medium

Humidity

Low to Average

Lifespan

Short-lived (20-30 years)

Native To

Southwestern US, Mexico

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site in full sun with excellent drainage.
Amend heavy clay soils with grit or expanded shale to improve drainage.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container.
Set the plant so the top of the root ball is slightly above soil level.
Backfill with soil, creating a slight mound.
Water well at planting and provide infrequent, deep waterings thereafter.
Stake the main stem until it reaches the desired height.

Pro Tip

Stake young plants to the desired height to establish a trunk before allowing the branches to weep naturally.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide excellent drainage; this is critical for its survival.
Plant in full sun for best flowering and leaf quality.
Allow its natural weeping form to develop.
Appreciate its heat and drought tolerance once established.

Don't

Don't overwater or plant in a low, wet spot.
Avoid planting in acidic soils; it prefers neutral to alkaline pH.
Don't perform heavy pruning, which can ruin its natural form.
Don't fertilize with high-nitrogen formulas.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Graceful weeping specimen for small gardensCascading feature over a retaining wallUnique accent in a large container

Companion Plants

Salvia greggii Hesperaloe parviflora Muhlenbergia capillaris Yucca rostrata Agave parryi

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Traveller Redbud questions

What zones can Traveller Redbud grow in?

Traveller Redbud is hardy in USDA Zones 6–9. Inside that range it survives winter in the ground; outside it, grow it as an annual or a container plant you protect.

Is Traveller Redbud deer resistant?

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

When does Traveller Redbud bloom?

Traveller 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 Traveller Redbud need full sun?

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

Is Traveller Redbud drought tolerant?

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