Cercis

Beautiful, broadly rounded, redbud is among the finest of our native small trees for ornamental use. Covered with masses of small, lavender flowers in early spring. Begins blossoming when quite young. The attractive, dark green, heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall. Prefers moist, rich soil, but will succeed in most well-drained soils. Very adaptable as a landscape subject, redbud is excellent at woodland edges, near water features, or just about anywhere in the landscape. Can be trimmed up for use as a small shade tree.