Contents
Description
Cercis Chinensis, commonly known as the Chinese Redbud, is a deciduous tree that originated from China. It belongs to the Fabaceae family and is a popular ornamental tree because of its beautiful pink to purple flowers that bloom in spring. The tree can grow up to 20 feet tall and has a spread of 15 feet. Its leaves are heart-shaped, and its trunk and branches have a smooth, dark brown bark.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukarya |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Spermatophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercis |
Appearance
The Chinese Redbud has a beautiful appearance that makes it a popular ornamental tree. Its leaves are heart-shaped and have a glossy green color. In the spring, the tree produces clusters of pink to purple flowers that cover the branches and trunk. The flowers are followed by flat, brown pods that contain the tree’s seeds. The trunk and branches of the tree have a smooth, dark brown bark that is visually appealing.
Care Guide
The Chinese Redbud is an easy-to-care-for tree that requires minimal maintenance. Here are some care tips:
- Water: Water the tree regularly during the growing season to keep the soil moist. Avoid overwatering, as this can cause root rot.
- Fertilization: Fertilize the tree once a year in the spring to encourage healthy growth. Use a balanced fertilizer that contains equal amounts of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium.
- Soil: The Chinese Redbud prefers well-draining soil that is slightly acidic. If the soil is clay-heavy, add organic matter like compost or peat moss to improve drainage.
- Sunlight: The tree prefers full sun to partial shade. It can tolerate some shade, but the flowering may be reduced.
- Hardiness Zones: The Chinese Redbud is hardy in USDA zones 6 to 9.
Common Pests & Diseases
The Chinese Redbud is generally pest and disease-free, but it can be susceptible to some problems:
- Aphids: These tiny insects can suck the sap from the tree’s leaves, causing them to curl and distort. Use insecticidal soap or neem oil to control the infestation.
- Canker: This fungal disease can cause sunken spots on the tree’s bark and cankers on the branches. Prune infected branches and apply a fungicide to prevent the disease from spreading.
- Root Rot: Overwatering or poor drainage can cause root rot, which can be fatal to the tree. Improve the soil drainage and reduce watering to prevent the problem.
Habitat
The Chinese Redbud is native to China and can be found growing in forests, woodlands, and along riverbanks. It prefers well-drained soil and can tolerate a wide range of temperatures and humidity levels. The tree is also cultivated as an ornamental tree in gardens and parks around the world.
Question and Answer
Q: Can the Chinese Redbud be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the Chinese Redbud can be grown in containers, but it may not reach its full height and spread.
Q: How often should I prune my Chinese Redbud?
A: Prune the tree in late winter or early spring before the new growth appears. Remove any dead, diseased, or crossing branches, and shape the tree as desired.
Q: Can the Chinese Redbud tolerate drought?
A: The Chinese Redbud prefers moist soil but can tolerate some drought once established. Water the tree deeply during dry spells.
Q: How long does it take for the Chinese Redbud to flower?
A: The tree typically blooms in late winter or early spring, about 2 to 3 years after planting.
Related Plants
- Cercis canadensis (Eastern Redbud)
- Cercis occidentalis (Western Redbud)
- Cercis siliquastrum (Judas Tree)
- Cercis reniformis (Oklahoma Redbud)
References
- “Cercis Chinensis.” Missouri Botanical Garden, www.missouribotanicalgarden.org/PlantFinder/PlantFinderDetails.aspx?kempercode=c119.
- “Chinese Redbud.” The Morton Arboretum, www.mortonarb.org/trees-plants/tree-plant-descriptions/chinese-redbud.
- “Cercis Chinensis.” PlantFiles, www.garden.org/plants/view/1210/Cercis-Chinensis/.
