Cercis occidentalis
Western Redbud
Description
This broadleaf deciduous shrub reaches 10' tall and wide. It is often multi-stemmed, with a broad crown. Foliage may be kidney-shaped or heart-shaped and blue-green. Pea-like flowers appear before new leaf growth; pinkish purple small flowers appear in late winter through spring. Brown fruit pods appear in summer but may last through winter. They are attractive on this plant. This shrub may be pruned to be more tree-like in habit, if desired. This plant tolerates full or part sun with well-draining soil. Established plants are drought tolerant.
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
6-12'
Width Range
6-12'
Flower Color
Pink, Purple
Flower Season
Winter, Spring
Leaf Color
Blue Green
Bark Color
Grey
Fruit Color
Brown
Fruit Season
Winter, Summer, Fall
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low, Low
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Acid, Neutral, Basic
Adverse Factors
n/a
Design Styles
English Cottage, Mediterranean, Ranch, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Background, Foundation, Lawn, Patio, Park, Parking Lot, Raised Planter, Walls / Fences
Special Uses
Cascade, Cut Flowers, Erosion Control
Attracts Wildlife
Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Water Saving Tip:
Mulching and adding compost to soil can minimize evaporation and help soil absorb and store water.