Eastern Redbud (Judas Tree)
Cercis canadensis · Fabaceae (Legume, Pea, or Bean family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an entire margin
Margin
Entire (smooth, unbroken edge)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Palmate venation radiating outward from the base where the petiole attaches, with a prominent network of reticulate secondary veins.
Key Features
Distinctive heart-shaped (cordate) leaves with palmate venation radiating from the base, combined with slender zig-zag twigs and flat, bean-like seed pods.
Description
The Eastern Redbud is a small, deciduous understory tree renowned for its spectacular magenta-pink pea-like flowers that bloom directly on the bare branches and trunk in early spring before the leaves emerge. As spring transitions to summer, it produces broad, heart-shaped leaves that cast a pleasant shade. In autumn, the foliage turns a soft, clear yellow.
Habitat
Understory tree found naturally in moist deciduous forests, along streams, woodland borders, and limestone glades. Prefers partial shade to full sun and well-drained, fertile soils.
Native Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from southern New York and southern Ontario west to Nebraska, and south to Florida and northern Mexico. Widely planted as an ornamental tree.