Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud

Light Needs

Part Sun to Full Sun

(5+ Hours Direct Sun)

Mature Height

8-10 Feet

Mature Spread

8-10 Feet

Growing Zones

5 to 9

Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud turns a small garden into a jewel box before the leaves even open. This compact Cercis canadensis 'NC2017-6' flowers in early spring with pinkish-purple clusters along bare branches, followed by heart-shaped foliage in deep amethyst-purple. The color holds through summer better than many dark-leaf redbuds, giving patios, courtyards, and front beds a strong focal point in a manageable size. This is a smart substitute for a Japanese maple due to its better adaptability and pollinator value.

This North American redbud selection comes from a cross between compact Ace of Hearts redbud and purple-leaved Ruby Falls redbud. It matures about 8 to 10 feet tall and wide, with a dense upright habit that looks finished without frequent shaping. Early flowers attract bees and other pollinators before many trees have leafed out. Use it near a reading bench, at the edge of a foundation bed, in a small native garden, or as a patio container tree where its dark foliage can be seen up close.

Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud Care

Plant Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud in full sun to partial shade, with afternoon shade helpful in hot, dry regions. It grows best in moist, well-drained loam, but it can adapt to clay, sandy, or average garden soil if drainage is good. A slightly acidic to slightly alkaline pH, about 6.5 to 8.0, is suitable.

Water deeply when the top 3 inches of soil are dry, especially during the first few growing seasons. Once established, it tolerates moderate drought, though steady moisture during heat helps protect the foliage. Feed in early spring with compost or a balanced slow-release fertilizer. This deciduous tree drops its leaves in fall before winter rest.

Prune after flowering or in late winter only to remove dead, crossing, or awkward branches. Keep shaping light so the compact natural form stays intact. Add mulch over the root zone to conserve moisture and protect young roots, keeping the mulch several inches away from the trunk.

Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud Spacing

Space Garden Gems® Amethyst Redbud 8 to 10 feet from other small trees or large shrubs. For patio growing, use a 20- to 25-gallon container with drainage and plan for more frequent watering in warm weather. Suitable companions in part-sun include barrenwort, hellebores, coral bells, and sweetspire, offering layered foliage and spring flowers.

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