Redbud (Eastern Redbud, Judas Tree)
Cercis canadensis · Fabaceae (Legume, Bean, or Pea family)
AI-generated identification · may be incorrect
Leaf Morphology
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an entire margin and rounded to slightly pointed tip
Margin
Entire (smooth)
Arrangement
Alternate
Venation
Palmate venation with several primary veins radiating from the base, prominent midrib and raised secondary veins
Key Features
Distinctive heart-shaped (cordate) leaves with palmate venation, zig-zag twigs, and pea-like flowers blooming directly on woody trunks and branches (cauliflory).
Description
The Eastern Redbud is a small, often multi-stemmed understory tree celebrated for its brilliant magenta-pink flowers that burst directly from the bark and branches in early spring before the heart-shaped leaves emerge. As the leaves mature, they transition from a reddish-purple tinting in spring to a deep, lush green in summer, and finally to a striking bright yellow in autumn.
Habitat
Understory tree in deciduous forests, along stream banks, forest edges, and limestone glades. Prefers moist, well-drained soils and partial shade to full sun.
Native Range
Native to eastern and central North America, ranging from southern Ontario south to northern Florida, and west to Texas and the Great Plains.