Cercis Occidentalis
| Climate Zone(s): | 7-10 |
| Height | 15′- 20′ |
| Spread | 15′- 20′ |
| Exposure | Full Sun |
| Growth Rate | Medium |
| Shape | Oval |
| Soil | All – tolerates alkaline soil and clay |
| Purpose | Shade, Ornamental |
Description:
A deciduous shrub to small tree, rose-purple, magenta, to violet flowers occur in spring, Feb.-April.. Western Redbud is native on dry slopes (usually next to a spring or seasonal creek), coast ranges and Sierra foothills to 4500′, east to Utah. Likes full sun, some summer water for faster growth, regular water in desert areas. It’s tolerant of clay soils, needs a winter chill before flowers set properly. Flowers and young pods are edible. The young, small redbud plants are not cold hardy below 20 degrees F. Older plants are no problem at 10 degrees F. or less. Tolerant of lime or acid soils, pH 5.5-8 is safe. In our climate Western Redbud flowers about the same time as Ceanothus, and brings in people from the road who want to know what it is. The flowers usually emerge before the leaves. Its reddish- to brownish-purple seed pods hang on tree in winter.
Drought Resistance:
Used by Xeriscape (dry landscaping) gardeners as a critical addition for wildlife.
Uses:
This tree is great for a bird garden. Hummingbirds feed on its nectar.
Moisture:
The Western Redbud grows well in drought conditions and withstands heat quite well. Younger plants will need extra water to become established and perform well.
Leaves:
The foliage turns a different color in the fall, usually yellow to red. Spring and Summer color is green. Type is deciduous.
Flower Color:
The Western Redbud has showy flowers rose-purple to violet in color and are edible.
Bloom Time:
Masses of brilliant blossoms in early spring.
Fruit Description:
Conspicuous long seed pods that start out lime green and age to purple-brown.
