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Description
Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy, also known as Eastern Redbud, is a stunning deciduous tree that belongs to the pea family. It is native to North America and is widely cultivated for its unique purple foliage and profuse spring blooms. The tree grows up to 20-30 feet tall and 25-35 feet wide, with a rounded shape and a spreading canopy. The leaves are heart-shaped, 4-6 inches long, and emerge as a burgundy-red color in spring, gradually maturing to a reddish-purple in summer, and then turning yellow in fall. The tree produces small, pink-purple flowers that bloom in clusters along the branches before the leaves appear. The flowers are followed by flat, brown seed pods that remain on the tree throughout the winter.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Leguminosae |
| Genus | Cercis |
Appearance
Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy is a beautiful tree that adds color and interest to any landscape. Its most striking feature is its purple foliage, which is a unique characteristic in the plant world. The leaves emerge as a burgundy-red color in spring, gradually maturing to a reddish-purple in summer, and then turning yellow in fall. The tree produces small, pink-purple flowers that bloom in clusters along the branches before the leaves appear. The flowers are followed by flat, brown seed pods that remain on the tree throughout the winter. The tree grows up to 20-30 feet tall and 25-35 feet wide, with a rounded shape and a spreading canopy.
Care Guide
Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy is an easy-to-care-for tree that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some tips for keeping your tree healthy and thriving:Water: Keep the soil evenly moist, but not waterlogged. Water deeply once a week during dry spells.Fertilization: Fertilize in spring with a slow-release, balanced fertilizer.Soil: The tree prefers well-drained soil with a pH of 6.0-7.0.Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy is hardy in USDA zones 5-9.
Common Pests & Diseases
Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy is relatively pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to a few problems:Canker: This fungal disease causes sunken, discolored lesions on the bark and can eventually kill the tree.Verticillium wilt: This fungal disease causes yellowing and wilting of the foliage and can eventually kill the tree.Aphids: These small insects suck the sap from the leaves and can cause stunted growth and distorted foliage.Japanese beetles: These beetles feed on the foliage and can cause significant damage if left untreated.
Habitat
Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy is native to North America and can be found growing in a variety of habitats, including woodlands, forests, and along streams and rivers. The tree prefers well-drained soils and full sun to partial shade.
Question and Answer
Q: How often should I water Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy?
A: Water the tree deeply once a week during dry spells.Q: Does Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy attract wildlife?
A: Yes, the tree’s flowers attract bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: How tall does Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy grow?
A: The tree grows up to 20-30 feet tall.Q: Is Cercis Canadensis Forest Pansy a good tree for small yards?
A: Yes, the tree’s rounded shape and manageable size make it a great choice for small landscapes.
Related Plants
- Cercis canadensis
- Cercis canadensis ‘Alba’
- Cercis canadensis ‘Appalachian Red’
- Cercis canadensis ‘Hearts of Gold’
References
- Missouri Botanical Garden, “Cercis Canadensis,” accessed August 2021.
- North Carolina State University Extension, “Cercis canadensis,” accessed August 2021.
- The Spruce, “Eastern Redbud Tree Profile,” accessed August 2021.
