Cercis occidentalis

Western Redbud
Fabaceae (Leguminosae)
Shrubs, Trees

CERCIS

Valued for flowers, fruit, foliage. Clusters of small, sweet pea–shaped, rosy to purplish pink blossoms in early–spring; where plant is adapted, blooms are borne in great profusion on bare twigs, branches, sometimes even on main trunk. Flowers are followed by clusters of flat, beanlike pods that persist into winter. Attractive broad, rounded leaves are heart shaped at base.

All redbuds provide fall color with first frost and are attractive in naturalized settings. Do any pruning in dormant season or after bloom.

Cercis occidentalis

Native to California, Arizona, Utah, but predominantly found in California foothills below 4,000 ft. Shrub or small tree 10 to 18 ft. tall and wide; usually produces several trunks from base. Provides all-year interest. Magenta flowers bloom in spring; handsome blue-green, 3-in. leaves, notched or rounded at tip, and newly forming magenta seedpods adorn branches in summer. Foliage turns light yellow or red in fall, and bare branches holding reddish brown seedpods are picturesque in winter. Best floral display comes in areas with some winter chill. Resistant to oak root fungus. Very drought tolerant; excellent for seldom-watered banks.