Eastern Redbud
Cercis canadensis
Tree
The magenta-pink flowers open directly on bare twigs in April, before the leaves — an unforgettable sight against a spring sky. Heart-shaped leaves in summer, yellow in fall. Multi-trunked forms are the most graceful.
The spec sheet.
- Habitat
- Forest edges, woodland understory throughout NJ
- Bloom time
- April
- Sun
- Part sun to part shade
- Soil
- Average, well-drained; adaptable
- Moisture
- Medium
- Height
- 20–30 feet
What it attracts.
The species that visit, feed on, or depend on this plant — and how they use it.
Emerging queen bumblebees
Nectar source
Critical early-season fuel when very little else is open
Mason bees, mining bees (Osmia, Andrena)
Nectar source
Henry's Elfin butterfly
Larval host
Short-lived for a tree — 30 to 40 years is a typical lifespan. Give it room to spread. Doesn't transplant well after year two, so plant small.
Xerces Society · Doug Tallamy — Bringing Nature Home · Jersey-Friendly Yards
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- Bloom
- Apr–Jun
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- Type
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- Bloom
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