Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)-Hort Answers - University of Illinois Extension
University of Illinois Extension

University of Illinois Extension

Hort Answers

Tree

Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis

Eastern Redbud in flower
Eastern Redbud in flower
 
Features
Bright, magenta pink flowers in spring, produced in large quantity; yellow fall color; mildly shaggy bark shows up well in winter. 
 
Culture
Full sun to partial shade; moist, well-drained soil (trees in full sun may need more water); tolerates alkaline soils. 
 
Cultivars

Many, including

  • 'Alba'-has white flowers.
  • 'Northland Strain'-very cold-hardy, from Minnesota.
  • 'Silver Cloud'-leaves variegated with cream.
 
 
Mature Height
20-30 Feet
 
Size
Small
Medium
 
 
Mature Form
Rounded to broad spreading, often taking on a picturesque form. 
 
Native To:
United States (and Illinois) 
 
USDA Hardiness Zone
5 - 8 
 
Soil Conditions
Moist, Well-Drained
 
 
Tolerance
Alkaline Soil
Wind
 
 
Exposure/Light Requirements
Full Shade
Full Sun
Partial Sun/Shade
 
 
Uses
Massing
Patio
Specimen
 
 
Foliage Color
Green
 
 
Fall Foliage Color
Green
Yellow
 
 
Pests and Problems
 
Additional Notes
An understory tree, so fairly shade tolerant. Tends to be a relatively short-lived tree (25 years or so)

 

 
Related Resources
Home, Yard & Garden Pest Guide
Illinois Commercial Landscape and Turfgrass Pest Management Handbook
U of IL - Distance Diagnosis through Digital Imaging
U of IL - Plant Clinic