Cercis canadensis
A beautiful tree, eastern redbud is relatively short and known for its heart-shaped leaves and brilliant pink-to-red flowers. The showy blossoms are an incredibly important food source for pollinators in early spring as there are fewer pollen and nectar sources during this part of the season. Additionally, many Lepidoptera (butterflies and moths) larvae enjoy feeding on the leaves, further making redbud a beneficial buggy buffet! Beyond insects, the flowers are enjoyed by people as well; the blossoms are eaten raw or fried, and the green twigs can be shaved down and used as a spice.
Family: Fabaceae
Foliage: Deciduous
Mature height range: 20-30 ft.
Light exposure: Partial Shade to Full Shade
Soil preference: Moist, well-drained soils that are fertile
Tolerance: Tolerant of shade and some urban conditions; many cultivars exist that tolerate a wider range of stresses
Wildlife: herbivory by mammals, pollinated by insects, larval host plant for the Henry’s elfin (Callophrys henrici), redbud leaffolder (Fascista cercerisella), red-humped caterpillar (Oedemasia concinna), fall webworm (Hyphantria cunea), white flannel moth (Norape ovina), American dagger moth (Acronicta americana), grape leaffolder (Desmia funeralis), and Io moth (Automeris io)
