Redbuds

Cercis

A genus of deciduous temperate region trees that are in the larger legume family and flower before or with the emerging foliage during the spring. The flowers attract hummingbirds and butterflies.
Early shaping is generally needed to train into a tree with a strong central leader. Little pruning is needed after. Excessive seed crops that slow vigor can be removed from young trees.
Most Cercis prefer sun or partial shade on a deep, fertile, well drained soil. Redbuds do not like transplanting and are can be slow to establish if not planted while small. Trees planted from containers establish much faster than trees that are transplanted. In climates with cold winters, they should be planted during early spring. There seems to be some debate as to how to fertilize. It is reported that artificial fertilizers can damage the roots. Many legume trees produce their own nitrogen thus don't really need alot. I suspect a light dose of all purpose upon leafing out, then again around Jun 1 can increase growth along with bonemeal in the fall to encourage root growth. Protect the trunks of trees from lawn mower damage which can infect a tree with canker.
For propagation; it is recommend to sow fresh harvested seed that is then pre soaked in hot water to soften the outer coat. The seed can then either be sown outdoors or put in a bag of moist peat moss then left in the refridgerator for 3 months. The cultivars can also be propagated from half hardened cuttings in summer or early fall.
The flowers are tasty and can be used in wine and ice cream. The tender young leaves, flowers and seedpods can be fried in tempura batter or used in salads.

Cercis canadensis ( Eastern Redbud )
A fast growing, broad, rounded tree that is a widespread native to eastern North America ( eastern Nebraska to southern Michigan to New York State; south to eastern Texas to central Florida ). Typically fast growing to 30 feet in size; some records include: first year from seed - 20 inches; growth rate - 9 feet 9 ( forced in nursery ) ; 4 years - 15 feet; 10 years - 25 x 30 feet; 20 years - 50 x 50 feet; largest on record - 82 x 40 feet with trunk diameter of 5.2 feet. Typically open grown trees have a short main trunk and a spreading rounded canopy. The Eastern Redbud is hardy far outside its native range with one tree recorded to have grown to 40 feet in Colorado. Redbud's seem to grow best in Virginia and one very large tree of 52 x 40 x 3 feet has been recorded in Roanoke. The Eastern Redbud is endangered in the wild in Canada where the tiny Pelee Island south of Leamington in the middle of Lake Erie comprise most of it's remaining native range. However in much of its U.S. range it is a common tree as it is in cultivation. It was uncommon on the Ohio shore except locally common on the Sandusky peninsula during the 1800s.
The smooth-margined leaves, up to 8 x 8.5 inches in size, are rounded with a pointed tip. The foliage is bright green, turning to golden-yellow during autumn.
The rose pink flowers are borne in clusters of 4 to 8 during early spring. The flowers generally last 3 weeks.
They are followed by reddish-brown seed pods up to 6 inches long in summer. The immature seed pods are edible and can be added to salads.
The slender zig-zag twigs are dark reddish with abundant white lenticels.
The bark is red-brown and scalys.
Hardy zones 3 to 9 in sun or shade. Trees planted in the north should be grown from seed originating in the northern part of its native range since a tree transplanted from Florida to Minnesota will probably not survive the winter. The Eastern Redbud loves hot summers but does not like salt or pollution and can be prone to canker especially on sites where it is stressed. The Eastern Redbud grown from seed can produce a saleable 1 gallon size plant in 5 months and a 5 gallon size plant in 1.5 years.

* photo taken on Apr 18 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photos of unknown internet source




* photos taken in Columbia, MD on April 7 2010






* photo taken on August 3 2010 @ University of Guelph Arboretum, Ontario

* photo of unknown internet source
* photos taken on Aug 3 2012 in London, ON

* photo taken on Apr 2014 in Odenton, MD

* photo taken on Apr 22 2015 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken @ Middle Patuxent, Clarksville, MD on Apr 24 2015

* photo taken on Apr 23 2015 in Howard Co., MD

* photos taken on Apr 24 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 1 2016 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 17 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on July 5 2016 in Elkridge, MD

* photos taken on Apr 8 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 16 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photo taken on June 25 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 18 2018 in Howard Co., MD

* photos taken on Apr 18 2019 in Columbia, MD

* eastern redbud in St Thomas, ON

* photos taken on Sep 26 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Dec 29 2018 in Columbia, MD

* historical archive photo

* photo taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park

* photo taken on Oct 22 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 8 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 18 2021 in Windsor, ON

* photo taken on Aug 27 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Nov 9 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Oct 20 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Nov 3 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 16 2023 @ Fort Hunter, Harrisburg, PA

* photo taken on Oct 23 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Alba'
Identical to Cercis canadensis but with white flowers. Hardy north to zone 4

* photos taken on April 14 2010 in Clarksville, MD





* photo taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Apr 18 2018 in Burtonsville, MD

'Alley Cat'
A small tree, reaching up to 25 x 35 feet. It was developed by horticulturalist Allen Bush who gave it to Hidden Hollow Nursery for propagation.
The foliage is bright green with bronze-pink splashing at first, quickly turning to mid-green with heavy creamy-white splashing.
The flowers are deep lavender-pink.
The variegation is much more stable and resistant to sun scorch than other white variegated Cercis canadensis.
Hardy zones 5 to 8.

* photo taken on May 23 2017 in Howard Co., MD

* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Appalachian Red'
Brilliant intense pink-red flowers. Same size as species. Discovered by Dr. Max Byrkit on a roadside in Maryland

* photos taken in Clarksville, MD on April 9 2010



* photo taken on July 26 2015 @ Niagara Parks Bot. Gardens, Niagara Falls, ON

* photos taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Apr 20 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 20 2019 in Howard Co., MD

* photos taken on Apr 5 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 20 2024 in Howard Co., MD

'Black Pearl'
Moderate growing and broadly-oval in habit, reaching up to 6.5 x 5 feet in 4 years, eventually reaching up to 20 x 25 feet. It is compact in habit with short internodes between the leaves.
The glossy foliage is extremely deep purple to almost black. The rounded leaves are up to 6 x 5.5 inches in size.
The flowers are lavender-pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 8, it is hardier than 'Forest Pansy'.

* patent photo

'Burgundy Hearts'
Fast growing, reaching up to 25 x 25 feet in just 7 years, with an eventual size likely about the same as the species.
The foliage is glossy deep reddish-purple all season long. Unlike 'Forest Pansy' the foliage is even reddish-purple beneath.
The flowers are lavender-pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 8

* photo taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

'Carolina Sweetheart
A semi-weeping tree, averating 13 x 10 feet with a trunk diameter of 5.7" in 9 years, eventually to 30 x 30 feet, bearing stunning red and pink foliage that turns to green with a creamy-white border. Often all colors are present on the tree and new growth continues for most of the summer.
Hardy zones 6 to 9

* photos taken on June 24 2017 in Mt Airy, MD

* photos taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park

* photos taken on Oct 23 2022 in Burtonsville, MD

'Flame'
Upright habit and large semi-double pink flowers. Was originally found in the wild in Illinois. Hardy zones 5 to 9

'Flame Thrower'
Fast growing, reaching up to 7 x 4.5 feet in 3 years, to 20 x 15 feet in 20 years, eventually more. It originated at the JC Raulston Arboretum in North Carolina.
The stunning foliage is deep red at first, turning to coral, then to golden-yellow then finally bright green. It continues to produce new and contrasting foliage all summer.
The flowers are reddish-pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 9.

'Floating Cloud'
Similar to 'Silver Cloud' with foliage that is boldly splashed white, however foliage is much less likely to burn in hot climates.

'Forest Pansy'
Similar to species except with deep purple spring and summer foliage that turns to orange in fall. In hot summer regions the foliage often dulls to bronzy-green by July.
The flowers are rosy-purple.
The maximum size in 10 years is 30 x 30 feet and it matures to same size as regular Cercis canadensis.
Originating in Tennessee, it is less hardy in far north than the species ( to zones 6 to 8 and possibly 5 if sheltered ). It is also not adapted to zone 9.

* photo taken in Columbia, MD on May 2008






* photo taken in Clarksville, MD on April 9 2010

* photo taken on April 23 2010 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 6 2017 in Howard Co., MD

* photo taken on Jul 9 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park

* photo taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey PA

* photo taken on Aug 19 2021 in Elora, ON

* photos taken on Oct 24 2022 @ Howard Community College, Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 2 2023 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Oct 27 2023 @ Howard Community College, Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Oct 22 2024 @ Howard Comm. College, Columbia, MD

'Golden Falls'
Similar to 'Lavender Twist', but with large, bright golden-yellow ( orangish at first ) leaves. It originated at JC Raulston Arboretum in North Carolina. The leaves are very scorch resistant but may turn to lime-green by late summer in hot climates.
This vigorous, extremely attractive focal point tree is sure to get comments. it reaches up to 6.5 x 2.5 feet in 3 years, to 10 x 5 feet in 10 years, eventually more.
Hardy zones 5 to 9.

* patent photo

'Hearts of Gold'
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 13 x 15 feet in 4 years, 18 x 17 feet in 10 years, eventually to 30 x 35 feet or more. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 6 feet. It is typically larger growing than 'Rising Sun'.
The foliage is coppery-red at first, turning to golden-yellow then finally to mid-green. The foliage may burn for first summer or 2 in the deep south but eventually toughens up and will tolerate full sun. The foliage usually turns back to yellow or orange during autumn.
The flowers are lavender-purple.

* photo taken on May 21 2011 @ Brookside Gardens "Party with the Peonies" tour in Fulton, MD

* photo taken on July 11 2014 @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Washington, DC

* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photo taken on Apr 12 2021 in Olney, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Lavender Twist'
Attractive semi-dwarf rapid growing weeping twisted habit reaching up to: 3 years - 6 feet; 10 years - 6 x 8 feet; maximum size - 12 x 15 feet. Leathery rich green foliage that is larger than the species and lavender-pink flowers.
Hardy zones 4 to 9

* photo taken in Clarksville, MD on April 9 2010



* photo taken on October 14 2010 in Crownsville, MD


* photo taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on Apr 18 2013 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 15 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

* photo taken on Apr 28 2015 in Howard Co., MD

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photo taken on Oct 23 2022 in Burtonsville, MD

* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Little Woody'
A moderate growing, compact, very small, vase-shaped tree, reaching up to 11 x 10 feet in 8 years, eventually slightly larger.
The exotic-looking, very crinkled, thick foliage is deep green, turning to yellow during autumn. The leaves are up to 2.5 x 3 inches in size.
The flowere are pale purple.
Hardy zones 5 to 8

* photo taken on Sep 20 2023 in Howard Co., MD

* photo taken on Oct 29 2023 in Howard Co., MD

* photo taken on June 12 2024 in Howard Co., MD

'Merlot'
A cross between Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' and Cercis reniformis 'Texas White'. It is similar to Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' but with thicker foliage that retains its deep burgundy-red color better in extreme heat. It also it denser and has a better branching habit than 'Forest Pansy'.
The rounded leaves are up to 6 x 6 inches in size. The foliage is deep red at first, turning to deep reddish-purple during summer then to red or orange during autumn.
The abundant flowers are reddish-purple.
Hardy zones 6 to 8, it exhibits the superior heat and drought tolerance of Cercis reniformis.

* photo taken on June 22 2014 in Howard County, MD

* photos taken on Oct 2 2016 in Harford Co., MD

* photos taken on May 28 2017 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Nov 9 2017 in Harford Co., MD

* photo taken on Apr 20 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 15 2020 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Apr 25 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on May 22 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 20 2024 in Burtonsville, MD

* photo taken on Sep 5 2024 in Ellicott City, MD

* patent photo

'Minnesota Strain'
Similar in appearance to the species but much hardier. It is fully hardy and blooms reliably in zone 4. As it's name suggest, it originated at the Minnesota Landscape Arboretum and there are many thriving examples of it around Minneapolis. It may very likely be the most important Redbud for future hybridization work.

* photo taken on Jul 19 2017 @ Major's Hill Park, Ottawa, ON

* photos taken on Aug 22 2021 in Bayfield, ON

* photo taken on July 10 2023 @ Collingwood Arboretum, Collingwood, ON

* photo taken on July 9 2022 in Bayfield, ON

* photo of unknown internet source

'Northern Herald'
An extremely cold hardy cultivar that was developed and introduced by North Dakota University that was originally discovered in central South Dakota.
The leathery deep green foliage turns to golden-yellow during autumn.
The abundant flowers are intense magenta-pink.
Hardy zones 3b to 7. It is also very heat and wind tolerant.

'Pink Heartbreaker'
More upright than 'Lavender Twist' with a strong central leader but still having strongly weeping side branches. Very fast growing, up to 6 feet per year, it reaches up to 10 feet in 3 years, eventually to 15 x 10 feet.
The foliage is reddish at first, turning to deep green. The leaves are rather large for a Cercis canadensis.
The flowers are lavender-pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 8, it has proven exceptionally drought tolerant and also tolerant of late season frosts.

* patent photos

* photos taken on Apr 16 2024 in Howard Co., MD

'Pink Pom Poms'
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 20 x 20 feet in 10 years, eventually more. It is one of the most vigorous of all Cercis canadensis cultivars. It was developed by Denny Werner at JC Raulston Arboretum in North Carolina.
The thick foliage is larger than average for an Eastern Redbud and is orangish-bronze at first during spring, turning to glossy deep green.
The deep pink ( red in bud ) flowers are double.
The cultivar is sterile, therefore not producing seeds.
Hardy zones 5 to 8.

* patent photo

'Rising Sun'
Vigorous in habit, reaching up to 10 feet in 5 years, 18 x 15 feet in 10 years, eventually to 30 feet or more. Some records include: fastest recorded growth rate - 6 feet.
The foliage is orange at first, turning to golden-yellow then finally to bright green. The foliage is much more sun scorch resistant than 'Hearts of Gold'.
The flowers are lavender-purple.
Hardy north to zone 5.

* photo taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on May 18 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photo taken on Jul 9 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photo taken on Aug 30 2017 in Howard Co., MD

* Rising Sun Redbud in Port Ryerse, ON

* photos taken on Apr 25 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 1 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 19 2021 in Elora, ON

* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Royal White'
More hardy than 'Alba' with larger white flowers.

'Ruby Falls'
Similar to 'Lavender Twist', but with large, glossy, deep purple-red leaves.
This vigorous, extremely attractive focal point tree is sure to get comments. it reaches up to 8 x 8 feet in 10 years, eventually to 10 x 12 feet.

* photo taken on May 7 2014 @ London Town Gardens, Edgewater, MD

* photo taken on June 22 2014 in Howard Co., MD

* photos taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on May 27 2017 @ Meadowlark Botanical Gardens, Vienna, VA

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on June 5 2018 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 12 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on June 22 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on June 11 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 5 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 14 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 17 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Oct 20 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 13 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 21 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 25 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Silver Cloud'
Reaches up to 15 x 15 feet in 10 years, eventually 20 x 20 feet or more, with creamy-white splashed leaves.

* photo taken @ Brookside Gardens "Party with the Peonies" tour in Fulton, MD

* photos taken on June 1 2014 @ Maryland Horticulturalist Society garden tour, Ellicott City

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

'Summer's Tower'
Vigorous, upright and vase-shaped in habit, reaching up to 25 x 9 feet in 6 years, eventually taller but likely not exceeding 15 feet in width.
The foliage is mid-green. The leaves average 5.5 x 5.5 inches in size.
The flowers are deep lavender-pink.
Hardy zones 5 to 8, reported to have superior heat and drought tolerance to species.

* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photo taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC

* patent photos

'Vanilla Twist'
Attractive semi-dwarf rapid growign weeping twisted habit reaching up to: 3 years - 6 feet; 5 years - 7.5 x 5 feet; 10 years - 6 x 8 feet; maximum size - 12 x 15 feet. It originated as a cross between 'Lavender Twist' and 'Royal White', that was made by Tim Brotzman in Ohio.
The foliage is yellowish-green at first, turning to bright green. The leaves average 5 x 6 inches in size.
the flowers are white.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

'Whitewater'
A weeping form with white splashed foliage. It typically reaches up to 4.3 x 3 feet in 3 years if staked, with an eventual size of 8 x 6 feet.

* photos taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

Cercis chinensis ( Chinese Redbud )
A variable tree native to central China that typically grows at a moderate pace and reaches up to 20 feet with a trunk diameter up to 1.5 feet. On ideal sites it can however become much faster growing and records include: growth rate - 2.5 feet; 7 years - 18 feet; 20 years - 50 x 50 feet; largest ever recorded - 70 x 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 4 feet.
The short-stalked, thick, cordate leaves are up to 6 x 6.5 inches in size. The glossy very deep green foliage turns to bright yellow during autumn.
The deep pink purple flowers are produced in early spring and are even found clusters in abundance on the branches and even the trunk.
Hardy zones 4 to 9 tolerating as low as - 32 F. Very well adapted to much of eastern U.S. with its hot humid summers and cold winters. This Redbud is NOT prone to canker. Very drought tolerant and even grows well with irrigation in the Arizona high desert.

* photos taken on March 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum



* photo taken on April 11 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC






* photo taken on Apr 17 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Sep 3 2017 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

* photos taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* historic archive photo

* photos taken on Oct 3 2022 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 5 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 18 2024 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 20 2024 in Columbia, MD

'Alba'
Dark green foliage similar to that of the species.
The flowers are pure white.
Hardy zones 6 to 9.

* photo taken on April 11 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC



* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

'Avondale'
More tree like in habit than the species ( and vigorous, reaching up to 8.3 x 7 feet in 5 years ) with very glossy leathery foliage. In early spring the branches are covered by a spectacular display of deep rose-purple flowers.
Hardy zones 5 to 9

* photos taken on Aug 25 2013 @ University of Maryland, College Park

* photo taken on June 7 2019 @ Univ. of Maryland, College Park

* photos taken on Mar 19 2024 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Mar 28 2024 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 11 2024 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 18 2024 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on May 9 2024 in Columbia, MD

'Don Egolf'
this cultivar is sterile and therefore does not get covered by the ugly brown seedpods in the winter. Slower growing than species ( 10 years - 8 x 8 feet; 15 years - 9 x 10 feet; 20 years - 12 x 12 feet ).
The very prolific blooms are bright magenta pink.
It is easily propagated from semi-hardwood cuttings.

* photo taken on Aug 20 2011 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD
* photo taken on April 6 2012 in Baltimore Co., MD

* photo taken on May 4 2013 in Baltimore Co., MD

* photo taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.

* photo taken on Apr 12 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Aug 1 2022 in Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on May 6 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 14 2024 @ Coventry Gardens, Windsor, ON

Cercis chingii
A very fast growing, rare Asian native that can grow at a rate up to 7 feet per year!
It can reach a maximum size of at least 40 feet. It often grows mult-trunked and must be pruned to a single leader when young.
It is unique from other Redbuds in having 1 inch leaf stipules. It flowers 10 days before Cercis canadensis on average. The foliage reaches up to 7 x 6 inches in size.
Hardy north to at least zone 6. Heat tolerant; it can even thrive in Tucson, Arizona if irrigated reaching 4 feet in 2 years and 7 feet in 3 years.
Very easy to propagate from seed with acid scarification and cold stratification for 3 months.

* photos taken on March 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC




* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

Cercis gigantea ( Giant Redbud )
A "Redbud on Steroids" that is native to China and can reach up to 17 feet in only 6 years and a maximum mature size of 82 x 35 feet with a trunk diameter up to 21 inches! The record growth rate is an amazing 7 feet!
The leaves are up to 9 x 9 inches in size. The foliage is glossy deep green, turning to gplden-yellow during autumn.
The pink flowers are born during mid-spring.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. It may self seed in the Mid Atlantic Region.

* photo taken on April 11 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC


* photos taken on May 8 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.

* photos taken on June 23 2013 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photos taken on Mar 26 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash, D.C.

* photo taken on Aug 4 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

* photos taken on July 3 2024 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Wash DC

Cercis glabra ( Glabrous Redbud )
A very rare, very fast growing, medium-sized tree that can reach up to 12 feet in 6 years and eventually 66 x 25 ( rarely over 40 ) feet. Growth rates up to 5 feet and even 8 feet have been recorded! It is native from southwestern to central China.
The cordate-rounded leaves, up to 9 x 9 ( rarely over 8 x 7 ) inches in size, are very large for a Redbud. The foliage is purplish-red at first, turning to mid-green.
The pink to bright purplish-red flowers are borne during mid-spring.
Hardy zones 6 to 9. Grows very well in the Mid Atlantic U.S. and even tolerates the scorching summers of Tucson, Arizona if irrigated.

* photo taken on Feb 8 2015 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on Aug 30 2021 @ U.S. National Arboretum, Washington, DC

Cercis griffithi ( Afghan Redbud )
A moderate growing small tree native to central Asia ( from eastern Uzbekistan to Tajikistan; south to northern Pakistan to northern India ).
The cordate, broadly-ovate to rounded leaves are bright green, turning to yellow during autumn.
The rosy-pink flowers are borne during mid-spring.
Hardy zones 7 to 9. It is extremely drought tolerant. Afghan Redbud should be planted more as it is endangered in its native range.

Cercis occidentalis ( Western Redbud )
A moderate growing, small tree native to montane Oak forests in the southwestern U.S.( from northern California or possibly southern Oregon to Utah; south to Mexican border at elevations up to 6000 ft. ) that can either grow as a large shrub or if trained to a main leader it can thus become a small tree to 20 feet or sometimes larger. Some records include: Growth rate - 3 feet; 2 years - 6 feet; 3 years - 9 feet; 8 years - 14 feet; 20 years - 30 x 20 feet; largest recorded - 45 x 40 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet. On ideal sites with irrigation in the west it can sometimes be forced to become fast growing.
The leathery rounded smooth margined leaves are up to 5 or rarely 6 x 6 inches . They are vivid green to blue-green above and paler below, they turn to red in the fall.
In spring, the branches are covered in rose-pink to red-purple 0.5 inch flowers that appear before the foliage. The flowers are followed by dull red-brown pods up to 4 x 1 inch in size.
The immature seed pods are edible and can be added to salads.
The bark is brownish-red
Hardy zones 4 to 10 ( young trees need winter protection north of zone 8 ) and very tolerant of alkaline soils and annual rainfall to as low as 22 inches. Very drought tolerant but needs cool to cold winters and hot summers to flower well. The interior native population makes an excellent landscape tree in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Western Redbud may take up to 3 years for full hardiness and some seed source may not tolerate below 0 F even then.
Preferring a mediterranean climate, this Redbud prefers a deep soil but should not be watered frequently during summer. Planting it in a lawn is probably not a good idea. Seeds are easy to germinate if baked at 250 degrees for 10 minutes first ( which recreates "forest fire conditions" )

* photos taken by http://www.nwplants.com

* photo taken by Norman L. Norris @ USDA-NRCS PLANTS Database

* historical archive photo

Cercis racemosa ( Panicled Redbud )
A very fast growing broadly columnar small tree native to China. Growth rates as much as 9 feet have been recorded! It can reach up to 30 x 20 feet in 20 years and eventually to 45 x 37 feet with a trunk diameter of 2 feet.
The Panicled Redbud is endangered in its native range.
The rounded, pointed tipped foliage is purple at first in the spring turning to very dark green above and hairy beneath. The leaves are rounded at the base and are up to 6 x 6 inches in size.
Unique in Redbuds; the light to rose-pink 0.5 inch flowers are produced in drooping racemes up to 4 inches long. Up to 40 flowers are borne in a cluster.
The flowers are followed by flattened pods up to 4 inches in length that ripen to brown.
The light gray bark becomes flaking as the tree ages.
Grows very well in the Mid Atlantic U.S. Hardy north to zone 7.

* photo taken on April 11 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on Apr 24 2016 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

Cercis reniformis ( Texan Redbud )
Similar to Cercis canadensis except for having large, leathery, wet looking, glossy green, blunt-tipped leaves that are downy below. The leaves reach up to 6 x 6 ( rarely over 4 x 5 ) inches in size. The foliage turns to yellow in the fall. The foliage is excellent for creating a lush tropical appearance to the landscape. It is native from central Texas into northern Mexico.
Fast growing to 40 x 40 feet, some records include: Growth rate - 4 feet; 2 years - 5 gallon plant, 3 years - 16 feet; 10 years - 23 x 13 feet; tallest - 80 feet with a trunk diameter of 2.2 feet.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 or possibly 5 if sheltered but most definately requires hot summers to thrive.

* photo taken @ U.S. Botanical Garden, Wash., DC on Aug 25 2014

* historic archive photo

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photo taken on July 2 2019 @ Patuxent Wildlife Refuge, Laurel, MD

* photos taken on Oct 26 2019 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on Apr 22 2020 in Burtonsville, MD

* photos taken on Aug 3 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Nov 11 2021 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 12 2023 in Columbia, MD

* photo taken on July 8 2022 in Grand Bend, ON

'Alba'
Nearly identical, except for having pure white flowers.

* photos taken on April 2012 in Columbia, MD
* photos taken on June 8 2012 in Ellicott City, MD
* photos taken on July 23 2014 in Ellicott City, MD

* photo taken on Oct 1 2014 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Apr 23 2015 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on May 9 2015 in Ellicott City, MD

* photos taken on Aug 27 2015 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 15 2017 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on May 28 2017 in Ellicott City, MD

'Mexicana'
Exceptionally drought tolerant tolerating as low as 12 to 20 inches of rainfall per year. The leaves are larger, up to 6 inches in length.

* photo taken on May 14 2021 in Columbia, MD

'Oklahoma'
Excellent form and attractive, thick, luxuriant glossy deep green foliage. Dark pink-red flowers

* photo from unknown internet souce

* photos taken on Aug 20 2011 @ Audubon Sanctuary, Montgomery Co, MD


* photo taken on Apr 15 2014 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 20 2020 in Columbia, MD

* photos taken on Apr 15 2021 in Burtonsville, MD

* photos taken on Apr 2 2023 in Columbia, MD

'Traveller'
Strongly weeping, reaching up to 6 x 12 feet in 10 years, eventually to 8 x 14 feet.
The thick foliage is reddish at first, turning to glossy deep green.
The flower are purplish-pink.
Hardy zones 6 to 8.

* photos taken on Apr 23 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 5 2017 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photo taken on Aug 24 2017 @ U.S. Botanic Garden, Wash. DC.

* photos taken on July 13 2021 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey PA

* photo taken on Aug 1 2022 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

* photos taken on June 19 2023 @ Hershey Gardens, Hershey, PA

* photo taken on July 10 2024 @ Brookside Gardens, Wheaton, MD

Cercis siliquastrum ( Judas Tree )
A moderate growing, small to medium-sized, flat to round-topped tree, reaching up to 50 feet, that is native to western Asia and the Mediterranean parts of Europe. It is often planted in southern Europe and milder parts of the British Isles. Some records include: fastest growth rate - 4 feet; largest ever recorded - 65 x 50 feet with a trunk diameter of 6 feet. The Judas Tree can live up to 223 years.
The heart shaped to kidney shaped leaves are up to 5 x 5 inches in size. The leaves are often bronze at first during spring, turning to deep blue-green. The foliage turns to golden-yellow during autumn. Unlike other Redbuds; the leaves on this one are folded towards the middle.
In early spring the bare branches are covered by a spectacular show of lavender-pink to rosy-purple flowers up to an inch in size and growing in clusters mainly covering older branches and the trunk. The flowers are edible.
They are followed by seed pods up to 5 inches long that ripen purple tinged in late summer.
The pods often persist in the fall and winter long after the leaves have fallen off.
The brown bark cracks into small square plates.
Hardy zones 6 to 9 ( Mediterranean seed source less hardy ) preferring deep, fertile, well drained soils and climates with long hot summers. Tolerant of limestone soils, drought and urban conditions. Despite it's Mediterranean origin, it is also more tolerant of England's maritime summers than other Redbuds.

* historic archive photo

'Afghan Deep Purple'
Deep purple flowers. Hardier than species north to zone 5.

'Alba'
White flowers.

'Bodnant'
Deep red-purple flowers.

Cercis yunnanensis ( Yunnan Redbud )
A vase shaped Asian native tree that is moderate growing up to 2 or rarely feet per year and will reach 6 feet or more in 6 years and eventually 25 feet. The Yunnan Redbud closely resembles Cercis chinensis with larger foliage ( up to 6 x 7 inches ).
Hardy zones 6 to 9 though with reports of zones 4b, it should be more thoroughly tested in the U.S. Very well adapted to the Mid Atlantic region of the U.S.

* photos taken on March 2010 @ U.S. National Arboretum, DC

* photo taken on 4th of July @ U.S. National Arboretum, D.C.


'Celestial Plum'
The plum-purple or magenta flowers are very showy in early spring

ADDITIONAL REDBUDS
https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Oklahoma-Sparkler-Redbud
https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP32138P2/en?oq=Cercis+PP32138

https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Hearts-Afire-Redbud
https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Rise-N-Shine

https://www.gardendebut.com/plant/Cotton-Candy-Redbud
https://patents.google.com/patent/USPP29290P2/en?oq=Cercis+PP29290%27