western redbud
Cercis occidentalis
Description:
Early, bright rose-purple spring bloom before round leaves appear; attractive reddish seed pods in summer; new stems, cut in winter, are used to add color to Native American baskets; attracts beneficial insects.
Native to:
California
Plant Type:
Shrub
Tree
Height:
15-20 ft
Width:
10-15 ft
Flower Color:
Pink
Bloom Period:
February-March
Wildlife Value:
Beneficial Insects
Honey Bees
Native Bees
Bumblebees
Sun Exposure:
Sun (6+ hours of direct sunlight)
Part Shade (best with afternoon shade)
Irrigation Needs:
Moderate (deep watering once a week)
Low (deep watering twice a month)
Very Low (deep watering once a month)
Maintenance Needs:
Prune old branches to ground during winter dormancy; select 3-5 outward facing leads for nice structure; prune suckers during growing season to maintain cleaner look.
Additional Information:
Detail of spring blossoms and emerging new leaves.
Leaves can put on a show in autumn.