Cercis canadensis
Native to the eastern United States the redbud is small to mid-sized tree reaching heights of 30’ and a spread of 35’. The leaves are large, dark green and heart shaped. In the fall, leaves turn a range of yellows and golds. This tree is especially showy in the spring with bright pink flowers lining the branches. These flowers are replaced by distinctive bean pods. The bark is often a darker color with a scaly appearance. The early blossoms draw in nectar-seeking insects, including several species of early-season butterflies. Northern bobwhite and a few songbirds, such as chickadees, will eat the seeds.
