Colorful Native Plants for Maryland

Cercis canadensis

Cercis canadensis, redbud, is deciduous, multi-trunked tree. The tree displays clusters of rosy-pink flowers in early spring. The redbud flowers are then followed by bean-like dry seedpods, which can remain on the the tree into the winter. The leaves on the tree are a pale yellow to greenish-yellow in the fall. Redbud trees have great multi-season interest and are wonderful in lawns or as a street tree. As they grow, they can tolerate full sun but prefer a little shade as it does best in part shade conditions.

LGS Notes:

This is one of the first blooms in the spring. It’s such an exciting time to drive and see the purple/pink buds on trees all along the highway. I use this tree a lot in residential settings because it’s a smaller ornamental tree that won’t get so large that it over takes a house. Ring-neck pheasants, quail, goldfinch and cardinals have been seen eating the seeds from redbud. The tree is also a larval host to 12 different Lepidoptera species. ~Lauren

Redbuds are one of my favorites.  I love including them in designs.  I frequently use them as a specimen tree.  They definitely add a romantic element to any garden!  ~Chrissie