Redbud

Scientific Name: Cercis canadensis

Family: Leguminosae

Origin: Eastern US

Redbud Tree

Why is it called Redbud? Because the winter buds are dark red to chestnut in color

Common Names: Eastern Redbud and Judas-Tree

Mature Height: 20-30 feet

Mature Width/Spread: 25-35 feet

Leaves: The leaves are alternate, simple, broadly heart-shaped and 3 to 5 inches high and wide. The top of the leaves are reddish in the spring, turning green in the summer. The undersurface of the leaves are pale green.

In the fall, the leaves become: Bright yellow

Flowers? Yes. The trees are covered with purplish-pink flowers in April and May before leaves appear

Historical tidbit: George Washington planted Redbud seedlings from the forest into his garden.

Did you know …

  • The flowers and buds on Redbuds are edible and can be eaten fresh or fried.
  • The roots of Redbud trees contain substances that are used for the production of red dyes.
  • The Eastern Redbud is the state tree of Oklahoma.
  • The European Redbud (Cercis siliquastrum) is the correctly named Judas tree because this is believed to be the tree that Judas Iscariot hanged himself from after betraying Jesus Christ.
Redbud Tree Buds Closeup
Redbud Tree Buds Closeup
Redbud Leaf

Sources

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cercis_canadensis

https://davesgarden.com/community/forums/t/1390105/#b

https://bernheim.org/learn/trees-plants/bernheim-select-urban-trees/eastern-redbud/

https://www.arborday.org/trees/treeguide/treedetail.cfm?itemID=912

https://hort.ifas.ufl.edu/treesandpowerlines/cercis_canadensis.shtml

http://www.softschools.com/facts/plants/redbud_tree_facts/679/

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