Cercis occidentalis
Western Redbud
Description
This deciduous shrub or small tree reaches 15' tall and 10' wide. Beautiful magenta flowers appear in spring, before the leaves appear. Foliage is apple green , turning yellow to red in the fall. Seed pods dangle on this tree in winter. Western Redbud prefers full sun but will appreciate afternoon shade in desert areas. It needs well draining soil. It is drought tolerant once it's established. It attracts hummingbirds and butterflies. A tree of varying interest all year round!
Plant Type
Tree, Shrub
Height Range
12-25'
Flower Color
Pink, Purple
Flower Season
Spring
Leaf Color
Green, Yellow Green
Bark Color
Grey
Fruit Color
n/a
Fruit Season
n/a
Sun
Full, Half
Water
Very Low, Extra in Summer
Growth Rate
Moderate
Soil Type
Sandy, Clay, Loam, Rocky, Unparticular
Soil Condition
Average, Well-drained, Dry
Soil pH
Neutral
Adverse Factors
Attracts Bees
Design Styles
English Cottage, Mediterranean, Ranch, Woodland
Accenting Features
Fall Color, Multi-trunk Tree, Showy Flowers, Specimen
Seasonal Interest
Winter, Spring, Summer, Fall
Location Uses
Foundation, Lawn, Patio, Park
Special Uses
Cut Flowers, Erosion Control
Attracts Wildlife
Hummingbirds, Butterflies
Water Saving Tip:
Replace turf with groundcovers, trees, and shrubs. If you have areas where no one uses the grass, patches that do not grow well, or a turf area too small to water without runoff, consider replacing the turf with water-efficient landscaping.