Eastern Redbud (also known as Judas Tree)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Fabales, Family: Fabaceae, Genus: Cercis, Species: C. canadensis · Fabaceae (Legume, Pea, or Bean family) · Simple leaf, deciduous
Species
Cercis canadensis
Leaf Type
Simple leaf, deciduous
Family
Fabaceae (Legume, Pea, or Bean family)
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an entire margin and rounded to slightly pointed apex
Size
Approximately 4 to 6 inches across, which is typical for a mature specimen of this species
Margin
Entire (smooth, uninterrupted edge)
Arrangement
Alternate arrangement along the twigs
Rarity
Common, widely found in the wild and extensively planted as an ornamental tree
Color & Pattern
Medium to bright green upper surface with lighter green undersides; displays vibrant yellow autumn coloration
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation with several prominent primary veins radiating from the petiole attachment point at the base
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) on top with occasionally slightly hairy veins on the underside
Description
A small understory tree famous for its stunning magenta-pink flowers that bloom directly on the branches and trunk before the leaves emerge in spring. Leaves are distinctive heart shapes that provide gentle shade.
Key Features
Distinctive heart-shaped leaves with palmate venation and alternate arrangement, combined with showy pink pea-like flowers blooming directly from woody stems (cauliflory)
Habitat
Understory tree found in moist deciduous forests, along stream banks, forest edges, and limestone glades
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, stretching from southern Ontario south to northern Florida, and west to Texas
Condition Notes
The leaf appears generally healthy with a few minor minor surface blemishes and spots, typical for late-season foliage, overall health grade is Good
Interesting Facts
The flowers are edible and have a pleasant, tart flavor, often used in salads. The tree is the state tree of Oklahoma
Medicinal & Uses
Indigenous peoples used infusions of the inner bark to treat whooping cough and congestion. Extensively used in landscaping as an ornamental flowering tree
Ecological Role
Provides early-season nectar and pollen for bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seeds are consumed by birds and small mammals
Similar Species
Littleleaf Linden (Tilia cordata) also has heart-shaped leaves, but its leaves are serrated and asymmetrical at the base, unlike the smooth-margined symmetrical Redbud leaf
Foraging Tips
Look for small, multi-trunked understory trees in early spring when flowers are present, or search for the unmistakable heart-shaped leaves during summer and fall
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The flowers, young pods, and seeds are edible for humans