Cercis canadensis Cotton Candy (Eastern Redbud)

Cercis canadensis Cotton Candy (Eastern Redbud) is a deciduous tree with a dense, dome-shaped canopy. Masses of pea-like pale pink flowers with touches of lavender striations cover the bare branches in the spring, before the foliage emerges, creating a most dramatic display. The cheerful blossoms are on display for 2-3 weeks. The foliage of heart-shaped, medium green leaves retains its color as the summer progresses. The summer foliage turns pretty shades of yellow in the fall. A great small ornamental tree for specimen use in the landscape.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis), along with Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis), Chinese Redbud (Cercis chinensis), and Judas Tree (Cercis siliquastrum), belongs to the legume family Fabaceae, sharing its lineage with plants such as peas, beans, lupines, and orchid trees.

• Grows up to 25 ft. tall (750 cm) and 15 ft. wide (450 cm).
• This Redbud is easily grown in full sun to part shade in well-drained soils. Performs best in moderately fertile soils with regular and consistent moisture. Best flower production is obtained in full sun, but part shade is best in hot summer climates. Needs a winter chill before the flowers set properly.
• Perfect choice as a specimen plant or for hedges.
• Generally pest free. Watch for canker, verticillium wilt, dieback, leaf spots, mildew, and blights. Deer tolerant.
• Learn more about common pests and diseases affecting redbud trees
• Does not transplant well. It should be planted when young and left undisturbed.
• Needs very little pruning. Remove diseased, damaged congested, or crossing shoots.
• Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.
• Cercis canadensis species is native to eastern and central North America from Connecticut to New York to southern Ontario and the Great Lakes south to western Texas and Florida.