Eastern Redbud (also known as Judas Tree or Redbud)
Kingdom: Plantae, Division: Tracheophyta, Class: Magnoliopsida, Order: Fabales, Family: Fabaceae, Genus: Cercis, Species: C. canadensis · Fabaceae (Legume, Bean, or Pea family) · Simple, deciduous
Species
Cercis canadensis
Leaf Type
Simple, deciduous
Family
Fabaceae (Legume, Bean, or Pea family)
Shape
Cordate (heart-shaped) with an entire apex and no lobes
Size
Approximately 3 to 5 inches across, typical for a mature specimen
Margin
Entire (smooth, unbroken edge)
Arrangement
Alternate
Rarity
Very Common
Color & Pattern
Medium to dark green on the upper surface, slightly paler and sometimes glaucous underneath; turns a clear yellow in autumn
Venation Pattern
Palmate venation, radiating outwards from the base of the leaf where the petiole attaches
Texture & Surface
Smooth (glabrous) above, finely pubescent along the veins on the underside
Description
The Eastern Redbud is a small, often multi-stemmed deciduous understory tree renowned for its brilliant display of magenta-pink pea-like flowers that bloom directly on the bare branches and trunk in early spring before the heart-shaped leaves emerge. The bark is dark brown to grey, becoming ridged and furrowed with age. Following the flowers, flat, brown legume pods develop and persist into winter.
Key Features
Distinctive heart-shaped (cordate) leaves with palmate venation branching from the base, combined with the alternate arrangement and zigzag twigs
Habitat
Understory of deciduous forests, along stream banks, forest edges, and limestone glades; prefers moist, well-draining soils and partial shade to full sun
Geographic Range
Native to eastern North America, ranging from New Jersey south to northern Florida, and west to southeastern Nebraska and Texas
Condition Notes
The leaf appears generally healthy and well-pressed for an herbarium specimen, though some minor whitish powdery residue from pressing or slight surface dust is visible. Overall condition is Good.
Interesting Facts
The flowers of the Eastern Redbud are edible and have a pleasant, tart flavor, often used in salads. The tree is also the state tree of Oklahoma
Medicinal & Uses
Native American tribes used infusions of the inner bark to treat whooping cough, fevers, and congestion. Widely planted as an ornamental landscape tree due to its striking spring blossoms
Ecological Role
Provides crucial early-season nectar for native bees, butterflies, and other pollinators. The seeds are consumed by various birds and small mammals
Similar Species
Littleleaf Linden (Tilia cordata) also has heart-shaped leaves, but Linden leaves are asymmetrically base-lobed and have serrate margins rather than smooth entire margins
Foraging Tips
Look for small understory trees with zigzag twigs and distinctive heart-shaped foliage in woodland borders and along forest paths. Spring is ideal for spotting the vibrant pink blooms, while summer and fall offer easy leaf identification
Toxicity Warning
Non-toxic. The flowers, young pods, and seeds are edible and safe for human consumption