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Cercis occidentalis (Western Redbud)

Western Redbud, Cercis canadensis var. texensis

Cercis occidentalis, Western Redbud, Shrub, Small Tree, Pink Flowers,
Cercis occidentalis, Western Redbud, Shrub, Small Tree, Pink Flowers,
Cercis occidentalis, Western Redbud, Shrub, Small Tree, Pink Flowers,

Providing four-season interest, Cercis occidentalis (Western Redbud) is a deciduous shrub or small tree of great beauty. In spring, its silvery-gray branches contrast beautifully with masses of brilliant magenta flowers attractive to hummingbirds, bees, butterflies, and other native pollinators. The cheerful blossoms give way to long, purple-brown seed pods which adorn the branches in summer. They create the illusion of having a twice-blooming tree in the garden. Emerging fresh apple green, the foliage of rounded, heart-shaped leaves darkens to blue-green in summer before turning golden yellow and rust red in the fall. As the leaves drop, they reveal the pleasing silver silhouette of this Redbud. Most often grown as a small, multi-trunked tree or shrub, the compact growth habit of Cercis occidentalis makes it suitable for small gardens.

  • Grows up to 10-15 ft. tall and wide (300-450 cm).
  • This Redbud is easily grown in full sun to part shade in well-drained soils. Best flower production is obtained in full sun. Tolerates alkaline and clay soils. Drought tolerant but can handle occasional watering in summer as long as it is planted in well-drained soil. It needs a winter chill before the flowers are set properly.
  • Pest and disease resistant. Deer tolerant.
  • Perfect choice as a specimen plant or for shrub borders.
  • Native to California, Arizona, and Utah.

Redbud Tree: How to Grow and Care with Success


While redbud trees are generally resilient and easy to grow, they are not without their challenges. From pest infestations to diseases and environmental stress, it’s crucial for gardeners to identify and address these issues promptly to maintain the health and vibrancy of these stunning ornamental trees.

Requirements

Hardiness 6 - 9
Heat Zones 9 - 12
Climate Zones 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Fabaceae
Genus Cercis
Common names Redbud
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Winter
Height 10' - 15'
(3m - 4.6m)
Spread 10' - 15'
(3m - 4.6m)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Native Plants United States, California, Southwest, Arizona, Rocky Mountains, Utah
Tolerance Drought, Deer, Clay Soil
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Small Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, Mediterranean Garden
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Alternative Plants to Consider

Cercis chinensis (Chinese Redbud)
Cercis canadensis Lavender Twist (Eastern Redbud)
Cercis canadensis The Rising Sun (Eastern Redbud)
Cercis canadensis f. alba (White Eastern Redbud)
Cercis canadensis ‘Alley Cat’ (Eastern Redbud)
Cercis canadensis Golden Falls® (Eastern Redbud)

Recommended Companion Plants

Eschscholzia californica (California Poppy)
Ceanothus (California Lilac)
Agastache (Hyssop)

Find In One of Our Guides or Gardens

Small Trees and Shrubs That Attract Birds
Roots of Life: Exploring the Diverse World of Trees
35 Best Flowering Trees for a Spectacular Garden Display
Small Trees, Big Impact: Maximize Your Garden’s Potential
Spectacular Trees for Vibrant Fall Colors: A Gardener’s Guide
35 Flowering Shrubs That Thrive in Full Sun
How to Create an Enchanting Butterfly Garden
For the Love of Butterflies: Best Flowers to Attract them to Your Garden
6 Reasons You Should Create a Butterfly Garden
Redbud Tree: Pests and Diseases to Watch Out For
Redbud Tree: How to Grow and Care with Success
Cercis (Redbud Tree)
For the Love of Bees: Best Flowers to Attract them to Your Garden
While every effort has been made to describe these plants accurately, please keep in mind that height, bloom time, and color may differ in various climates. The description of these plants has been written based on numerous outside resources.
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Requirements

Hardiness 6 - 9
Heat Zones 9 - 12
Climate Zones 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Shrubs, Trees
Plant Family Fabaceae
Genus Cercis
Common names Redbud
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early, Mid, Late)
Summer (Early, Mid, Late)
Fall
Winter
Height 10' - 15'
(3m - 4.6m)
Spread 10' - 15'
(3m - 4.6m)
Maintenance Low
Water Needs Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Showy
Native Plants United States, California, Southwest, Arizona, Rocky Mountains, Utah
Tolerance Drought, Deer, Clay Soil
Attracts Bees, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds And Borders, Small Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden, Mediterranean Garden
How Many Plants
Do I Need?
Explore Great Plant Combination Ideas
Cercis (Redbud)
Guides with
Cercis (Redbud)
Not sure which Cercis (Redbud) to pick?
Compare Now

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