Eastern redbud - cercis canadensis

Common Name: eastern redbud

Scientific Name: 
Family: Fabaceae
Genus: Cercis
Species: canadensis

Hardiness Zone: 4 to 8
Height: 20 to 30 ft 
Width: 25 to 35 ft

Description:​ ​Eastern redbud is a deciduous tree the typically grows up to 30 feet tall. Native to the eastern United States, this species is known for being one of the first spring bloomers of the year. And what a show it puts on! The bright pink to reddish-purple flowers cover old twigs, branches, and trunks. Easily distinguishable from neighboring species, this flowering is a sure sign of the onset of spring from March to May. 

Cercis canadensis is an understory species found in moist, loam or sandy soils. It is fire tolerant, and is capable of root sprouting post-fire. It is often more common on south-facing slopes where there is more available sunlight. In an urban setting, early pruning may be important for facilitating the development of a strong structure. 

References: 
USDA Plant Fact Sheet. "Eastern Redbud". ​August 2010. https://plants.usda.gov/factsheet/pdf/fs_ceca4.pdf. Accessed 09 May 2018.