Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree

Light Needs

Part Sun to Full Sun

(5+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

15-20 Feet

Mature Spread

15-20 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree turns spring foliage into a changing display of burgundy, red, orange, yellow, and green. Cercis canadensis 'NC2016-2' blooms in early spring with reddish-purple pea-like flowers held along the branches before the leaves appear. New heart-shaped leaves emerge deep burgundy-red, then shift through warm yellow and green as they mature, so several colors show on the tree at the same time. Our designers use it as a specimen in a front bed or courtyard because the foliage keeps changing long after the spring flowers finish.

This North Carolina State University introduction was developed from The Rising Sun® and a purple-leaf redbud selection, giving it unusual leaf color on a small ornamental tree. It grows about 15 to 20 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide, with an upright to lightly spreading habit that works in small yards and mixed borders. The early flowers provide nectar for bees, and the seed pods may feed birds later in the season. Use it as a focal tree, understory accent, or colorful anchor near patios, native gardens, and woodland edges.

Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree Care

Plant Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree in full sun to partial shade, with some afternoon shade helpful in hotter climates. It grows in clay, loam, or sandy soil and tolerates acidic, neutral, or mildly alkaline pH, provided the site drains well. Avoid compacted or saturated areas, since redbuds need moisture without standing water.

Water once or twice weekly during the first growing season, checking the soil about 3 inches down before watering. Established trees can handle occasional dry periods, but deep watering during long summer heat helps maintain leaf quality and color. Apply compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring. This deciduous tree drops its leaves in fall.

Prune after spring flowering if shaping is needed, focusing on crossing branches, weak angles, or lower limbs that interfere with nearby plantings. Remove dead or damaged wood in late winter before growth begins. Keep mulch spread over the root zone to reduce mower damage and conserve moisture, leaving several inches clear around the trunk.

Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree Spacing

Space Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree 12 to 15 feet from other trees or large shrubs so the canopy can develop without crowding. Use a 25-gallon or larger container only for young trees, with plans to shift into the landscape as it matures. In part-sun beds, grow it with ferns, hostas, boxwoods, or amsonia so green foliage and simple textures let the redbud’s changing leaf color stand out.

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