Cercis chinensis - Shrub - Chinese Redbud Page

Cercis chinensis, commonly known as Chinese Redbud, is a captivating addition to any garden, renowned for its vibrant, rosy-purple blooms and rich green foliage. Originating from the woodlands and slopes of central and eastern China, this deciduous tree thrives in USDA Zones 6 to 9. Although capable of reaching an impressive 50 feet in its native habitat, it typically grows as a multi-stemmed, open shrub or small tree in cultivation within the U.S., achieving a modest height of 8 to 15 feet. This dwarf stature, coupled with its densely branched structure, makes it a striking visual focus for street trees, lawns, woodland gardens, and shrub borders.

Chinese Redbud blooms spectacularly in early spring, painting your landscape with clusters of small, pea-like flowers that appear before the leaves. These fragrant blossoms last for two to three weeks, attracting pollinators and delighting onlookers with their attractive hues. Throughout the growing season, enjoy its rounded, heart-shaped leaves that provide an appealing backdrop in any naturalized setting. Its seed pods, reminiscent of a weaver's shuttle, ripen by late summer, offering further visual interest.

Adaptable to a range of soil types, Chinese Redbud prefers well-drained sites with medium moisture levels and thrives best in full sun to part shade. While its taproot makes transplanting a challenge, the selections you make when initially planting will be rewarded with its perennial elegance and resilience in the face of pests and diseases. This versatile tree is also excellent for urban planting, adapting well as a specimen or street tree. Durable against deer and black walnut, Cercis chinensis is an invaluable addition for those seeking a hardy yet stunning ornamental tree or shrub.