Eastern Redbud

Light Needs

Partial Shade to Full Sun

(At Least 3 Hours of Direct Sunlight)

Mature Height

20 - 30 Feet

Mature Spread

25 - 35 Feet

Growing Zones

4 to 8

The Eastern Redbud, or Cercis canadensis as it is botanically named, is a brilliant specimen tree for adding color and texture to the garden. Known for its pink-red blooms in early spring, this tree also produces stunning, heart-shaped, green leaves. Growing to an eventual height and spread of 25 to 30 feet when mature, this tree is simply loved by pollinators when in flower. Over time, the bark develops attractive deep grooves that expose its orange inner layer, which provides winter interest as well. 

When it blooms, the Eastern Redbud is an important food source for early pollinators. As a deciduous tree, it loses its leaves over winter, allowing sunlight to reach ground level, making it perfect for underplanting with spring bulbs. Low maintenance and native to Eastern North America, this tree is often grown as a specimen in the garden and as an ornamental street tree.   

Eastern Redbud Care

The Eastern Redbud prefers to be grown in full sun or partial shade and performs best in moist soil that is free-draining. Regular watering is required until this tree has established and during hot and dry spells thereafter. Potentially reaching a final height and width of 25 to 30 feet, care must be taken when siting this tree so that the branches do not interfere with overhanging structures or utility lines. The Eastern Redbud does not require any ongoing fertilization but will benefit from a mulch around the base of the trunk to help retain moisture. 

The Cercis canadensis requires little pruning. However, any dead, diseased or crossing branches can be removed with clean and sharp tools in spring. This tree can be grown with a central leader or as a multi-stemmed tree. If required, Eastern Redbud can tolerate hard pruning but only once established and when performed in early spring.

Eastern Redbud Spacing

If planting this tree as part of a row, it is advisable to space the trees at least 12 feet apart to give them enough room to grow. With a low canopy and a potential spread of around 30 feet, theEastern Redbud should not be planted close to any structures to prevent any future issues from arising.