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Description
Cercis Canadensis, commonly known as eastern redbud, is a deciduous shrub or small tree that is native to eastern North America. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is known for its beautiful pink to purple flowers that bloom in early spring. The leaves of the plant are heart-shaped and have a glossy appearance. The tree can grow up to 30 feet tall and has a spread of up to 25 feet.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercis |
Appearance
The eastern redbud has a distinct appearance that makes it stand out in any landscape. The tree has a broad, spreading crown and a short trunk with a diameter of up to 2 feet. The bark is dark brown and has a scaly texture. The leaves are heart-shaped and have a glossy appearance. They are green during the growing season and turn yellow in the fall. The flowers of the tree are pink to purple and grow in clusters on the branches before the leaves appear. The fruit is a flat, brown pod that contains seeds.
Care Guide
Caring for the eastern redbud is relatively easy, and the tree is adaptable to different growing conditions. Here are some care tips:
- Water: The tree needs regular watering, especially during hot, dry weather.
- Fertilization: The tree does not require a lot of fertilizer, but a light application of a balanced fertilizer in spring can improve growth.
- Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil that is slightly acidic.
- Sunlight: The tree grows best in full sun to partial shade.
- Hardiness Zones: The tree is hardy in USDA zones 4 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The eastern redbud is generally resistant to pests and diseases, but it can be affected by some problems, including:
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause dieback of branches and leaves.
- Aphids: These small insects can cause distortion of leaves and shoot growth.
- Webworms: These caterpillars can defoliate the tree if the infestation is severe.
Habitat
The eastern redbud is native to eastern North America and can be found growing in forests, woodlands, and along streams and rivers. The tree prefers well-drained soil and can grow in full sun to partial shade. It is an important food source for wildlife, including deer, rabbits, and squirrels.
Question and Answer
Q: How long does it take for the eastern redbud to bloom?
A: The tree typically blooms in early spring, before the leaves appear.
Q: Can the eastern redbud grow in containers?
A: Yes, the tree can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full size.
Q: Is the eastern redbud deer-resistant?
A: No, the tree is not deer-resistant and may be browsed by deer.
Q: Can the eastern redbud tolerate drought?
A: The tree can tolerate some drought, but it prefers regular watering.
Related Plants
- Cercis chinensis
- Cercis occidentalis
- Cercis reniformis
- Cercis siliquastrum
References
- Dirr, M. A. (2019). Dirr’s encyclopedia of trees and shrubs. Timber Press.
- Gilman, E. F. (1997). Trees for urban and suburban landscapes. Delmar Publishers.
- Missouri Botanical Garden. (n.d.). Cercis Canadensis. Retrieved from https://www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c330
