Eastern Redbud: A Popular Landscaping Tree with Stunning Flowers
Introduction
The eastern redbud is a beautiful flowering tree that is popular for landscaping. It is native to eastern North America and is known for its showy spring blooms. Redbud trees are relatively easy to grow and are a good choice for gardeners of all levels.
Characteristics of the Eastern Redbud
- Size: Eastern redbuds typically grow to be 20 to 30 feet tall and have a broad, spreading crown.
- Leaves: The leaves are heart-shaped and about four inches long. They are a medium green color and turn yellow in the fall.
- Flowers: The flowers are the most striking feature of the eastern redbud. They are pea-like in shape and bloom in clusters directly on the stems and even on the trunk. The flowers are usually pink, but can also be lavender or white.
- Fruit: The flowers develop into flat pods that contain seeds.
Varieties of Eastern Redbud Trees
There are many different varieties of eastern redbud trees available, each with its own unique characteristics. Some of the most popular varieties include:
- Forest Pansy: This variety has striking, deep reddish-purple leaves that fade to green during the summer. The flowers are a pinkish-purple.
- Merlot: Another variety with deep red leaves. The flowers are a pinkish lavender color.
- Hearts of Gold: Hearts of Gold has yellow leaves that change to green during the summer. The flowers are a pale pink.
- Rising Sun: This is a smaller variety, growing to about 12 feet tall. The leaves are a golden orange color that changes to yellow and then green.
- Carolina Sweetheart: This variety has unique leaves that emerge pink before becoming variegated in purple, white, green, and hot pink. The flowers are a pale pink.
- Silver Cloud: This variety has white and green variegated leaves. The flowers are a pale pink.
- Appalachian Red: The flowers on this variety are a deep, saturated pink that is closer to hot pink or magenta than red.
- Royal White: For bright white flowers against green leaves, try this cultivar.
- Flame: Flame produces double blooms in a deep rose color.
- Ruby Falls: Ruby Falls offers both a unique color and a special form. One of a handful of weeping redbuds, this one has purple-red leaves.
- Lavender Twist: Another weeping cultivar, Lavender Twist has green leaves and pinkish purple flowers. It grows vigorously and quickly and can completely arch over.
Benefits of Eastern Redbud Trees
Eastern redbud trees offer a number of benefits for gardeners, including:
- Beautiful flowers: The showy spring blooms are a major attraction of eastern redbud trees.
- Easy to grow: Redbud trees are relatively easy to grow and are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions.
- Native species: Eastern redbuds are native to eastern North America, which means they are well-adapted to the local climate and are beneficial to wildlife.
- Small size: Redbud trees are a good size for small yards or urban gardens.
Planting and Care
Eastern redbud trees prefer well-drained soil, but they are tolerant of a variety of soil conditions. They should be planted in full sun to partial shade. Redbud trees are relatively drought-tolerant, but they will benefit from regular watering during dry periods.
Conclusion
Eastern redbud trees are a beautiful and easy-to-grow addition to any landscape. With their showy spring blooms and attractive foliage, redbud trees are sure to add beauty and interest to your yard for many years to come.
