Species

Cercis canadensisRedbud

21 other cultivars

treeN. America Native

Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud

Cercis canadensis 'Jn2'

The Story

Plant Bio

Cercis canadensis, the Eastern Redbud, is a small, deciduous understory tree native to North America. It is celebrated for its profusion of pea-like, rosy-pink flowers that bloom on bare branches in early spring.

The Rising Sun ('JN2') is a spectacular cultivar noted for its foliage. New leaves emerge a deep apricot-orange, transition to bright yellow, then to chartreuse, and finally to green, creating a multi-colored effect all season.

Uses & Benefits:

The Rising Sun offers an unparalleled, dynamic foliage display from spring through fall. The constant emergence of new, brightly colored leaves creates a stunning, multi-toned effect that makes it a standout specimen. This is in addition to the classic, beautiful display of pink flowers on bare stems in early spring.

Its compact, multi-stemmed habit makes it an ideal choice for small gardens, patios, and foundation plantings. It can be used as a focal point or integrated into mixed borders to provide season-long color and structure without becoming overwhelmingly large.

As a native tree, it provides significant ecological benefits. The early spring flowers are a crucial, early food source for emerging native bees, honeybees, and other pollinators. The tree is also a host plant for the larvae of some butterfly species, and birds may eat the seeds.

SpeciesCercis canadensisRedbud

Essentials

At a Glance

Plant Type

Tree

Height

144 inches

Width

144 inches

Light

Full Sun, Partial Sun

Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Water

Medium

Humidity

Moderate

Lifespan

20-40 years

Native To

Eastern North America

Toxicity

Non-toxic

Bloom period

Early spring – Mid-spring

In flower about 2 months of the year

Planting

How to Grow

Select a site with well-drained soil; redbuds are adaptable.
Dig a hole twice as wide as the container but no deeper.
Carefully remove the tree from its pot and gently loosen the roots.
Place the tree in the hole, ensuring the top of the root ball is level.
Backfill with the original soil and water thoroughly.
Mulch around the base, keeping it away from the trunk.

Pro Tip

Plant in a location with morning sun and afternoon shade to achieve the best foliage color without scorching the leaves.

Keep It Thriving

Care Guide

Do

Provide good drainage.
Water regularly until the tree is well-established.
Mulch to protect the root system.
Site the tree where its spring flowers and summer foliage can be appreciated.
Prune minimally to maintain a natural form.

Don't

Do not plant in poorly drained or permanently wet soil.
Avoid transplanting an established redbud.
Don't make large pruning cuts, as they can be slow to heal and invite disease.
Avoid mechanical damage to the thin bark from mowers or trimmers.
Do not over-fertilize; a single spring application is plenty if needed.

Seasonal Care Calendar

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

Watch Out For

Pests & Diseases

Common Pests

Common Diseases

In the Garden

Landscape Uses & Companions

Landscape Uses

Vibrant multi-season specimen treeColorful accent for small gardensBright understory tree for woodland edges

Companion Plants

Phlox divaricata Tiarella cordifolia Narcissus 'Thalia'Cornus florida Amelanchier canadensis

Multiply

Propagation Methods

Good to Know

Common Questions

Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud questions

What zones can Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud grow in?

Jn2 The Rising Sun 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 Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud deer resistant?

Yes — Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud is rated deer-resistant. Deer typically pass it over, though extreme hunger can override any plant's defenses.

When does Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud bloom?

Jn2 The Rising Sun 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 Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud need full sun?

Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud does best in full sun to part shade. In hot climates, afternoon shade keeps blooms fresher longer.

Is Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud drought tolerant?

Yes — once established (usually after the first full season), Jn2 The Rising Sun Redbud handles dry spells with minimal watering. Water deeply its first year to build the root system that makes that possible.