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Description
Cercis Occidentalis is a deciduous tree that is native to the western part of North America. It is also known by the common name of Western Redbud. This tree is highly valued for its stunning pinkish-purple flowers that bloom in spring, making it a popular ornamental plant. The leaves of Cercis Occidentalis are heart-shaped and are green in color. The tree also bears brownish-black seed pods that are flat and oval-shaped.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Cercis |
Appearance
Cercis Occidentalis is a medium-sized tree that can reach up to 30 feet in height and 25 feet in width. The tree has a multi-stemmed trunk that is brownish-gray in color and is covered with smooth bark. The leaves of the tree are typically 3-6 inches in length and width, and are heart-shaped with a pointed tip. The flowers of Cercis Occidentalis are pinkish-purple in color and are borne in clusters on the branches. The tree also produces brownish-black seed pods that are flat and oval-shaped.
Care Guide
Cercis Occidentalis is a relatively easy plant to care for. Here are some important tips to keep in mind:Water: Cercis Occidentalis requires regular watering, especially during its growing season. Make sure to water deeply and avoid letting the soil dry out completely.Fertilization: The tree does not require heavy fertilization, but it will benefit from an annual application of balanced fertilizer in the spring.Soil: Cercis Occidentalis prefers well-drained soil that is rich in organic matter. It can tolerate a wide range of soil types, but it does not do well in heavy clay soils.Sunlight: The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade but may produce fewer flowers.Hardiness Zones: Cercis Occidentalis is hardy in USDA zones 7-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercis Occidentalis is relatively resistant to pests and diseases. However, some common problems that may occur include:Aphids: These tiny insects can infest the tree and suck sap from the leaves, causing them to yellow and wilt. They can be controlled with insecticidal soap or neem oil.Verticillium Wilt: This fungal disease can cause the leaves of the tree to wilt and yellow, and can eventually lead to the death of the plant. There is no cure for Verticillium Wilt, so infected plants should be removed and destroyed.
Habitat
Cercis Occidentalis is native to the western part of North America, where it can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including forests, woodlands, and along streams and rivers. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures.
Question and Answer
Q: Can Cercis Occidentalis be grown in containers?
A: Yes, but it may require more frequent watering and fertilization.Q: When is the best time to prune Cercis Occidentalis?
A: The best time to prune the tree is in late winter or early spring, before new growth appears.Q: How often should Cercis Occidentalis be fertilized?
A: The tree should be fertilized once a year in the spring.Q: What is the lifespan of Cercis Occidentalis?
A: The tree has an average lifespan of 20-30 years.
Related Plants
Here are some other plants that are related to Cercis Occidentalis:- Cercis canadensis (Eastern Redbud)- Cercis chinensis (Chinese Redbud)- Cercis reniformis (Oklahoma Redbud)
References
– “Cercis Occidentalis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=d501.- “Western Redbud (Cercis Occidentalis).” Arizona State University, https://cals.arizona.edu/yavapai/anr/hort/byg/archive/cercisoccidentalis.html.- “Cercis Occidentalis.” Plant Database, www.gardeningknowhow.com/ornamental/trees/redbud/caring-for-western-redbud.htm.
