Oklahoma Redbud
Cercis canadensis 'Oklahoma'
Essentials
At a Glance
Plant Type
Tree
Height
240 inches
Width
240 inches
Light
Full Sun, Partial Sun
Zones
6, 7, 8, 9
Water
Low to medium
Humidity
Adaptable
Lifespan
20-40 years
Native To
South-central North America
Toxicity
Non-toxic
The Story
Plant Bio
Cercis canadensis, the Eastern Redbud, is a small, deciduous North American tree celebrated for its stunning display of pinkish-purple flowers that bloom profusely on bare branches in early spring. 'Oklahoma' is a unique cultivar distinguished by its vibrant, wine-red flowers, which are darker than the species. Its most notable feature is the thick, leathery, deep green heart-shaped leaves that are extremely glossy and have excellent heat and drought tolerance.
Bloom Period:
Uses & Benefits:
Marketplace
Where to Buy
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Planting
How to Grow
- Select a site with well-drained soil; full sun is best for flowering
- Dig a hole two to three times wider than the root ball
- Gently place the tree in the hole, ensuring the root flare is visible
- Backfill with the soil you removed, avoiding amendments
- Water deeply and consistently for the first year
- Apply a 2-inch layer of mulch to conserve moisture
Pro Tip
Redbuds have a sensitive root system and resent transplanting. Choose your planting site carefully and plant it when young for best results.
Keep It Thriving
Care Guide
Do
- Provide excellent drainage; redbuds hate wet feet
- Water deeply but infrequently once established
- Mulch to protect the shallow root system
- Prune only when necessary to remove deadwood or crossing branches
Don't
- Don't plant in a poorly drained or constantly wet location
- Avoid deep cultivation around the base of the tree
- Don't over-fertilize, especially with high-nitrogen food
- Avoid major pruning on established trees, which can invite disease
Seasonal Care Calendar
| Task | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 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
Oklahoma Redbud questions
What zones can Oklahoma Redbud grow in?
Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma Redbud deer resistant?
Not reliably. Deer may browse Oklahoma Redbud, especially tender spring growth — plan on repellents or fencing where pressure is high.
When does Oklahoma Redbud bloom?
Oklahoma 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 Oklahoma Redbud need full sun?
Oklahoma Redbud does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.
Is Oklahoma Redbud drought tolerant?
Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Oklahoma 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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Hardy in your zone?
Grow Oklahoma 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.
