This month, I present Cercis canadensis or Eastern Redbud. Next to the community building’s east parking lot are 2 of these beauties.
Native to the eastern United States, Redbuds can be in shrub form or tree (20-30’ tall) and are known for their spring flowers and unique branching.
Before the leaves appear, this harbinger of spring offers tight, delicate clusters of pink flowers that hug its branches and stems. The tree likes full sun or part shade, blooming more in sun. It prefers moist, well-drained soil. With a deep tap it root doesn’t transplant well, unless young.
The trunk commonly divides close to ground, creating a spreading, flat-topped crown. Heart-shaped leaves emerge a reddish color after the flowering in spring, turning green for summer and yellow in autumn.
The blossoms attract nectar-seeking insects (butterflies) and birds will eat the seeds. The Redbud provides shelter for our birds and mammals. The flowers are also edible for humans. On a personal note, the year I learned about the native leaf-cutter bee and found them in our yard, I noticed the sweet little rounded cuts of the bee on our Redbud leaves. These pieces of leaf become nests for the bee’s eggs!
As always, when planting Redbud or Cercis canadensis, practice the right plant/right place method.
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