Cercis occidentalis
SER-sis ox-ih-den-TAL-is

Western Redbud, California Redbud,
Judas Tree
Leguminosae (Legume family)
Origin: California. Arizona, Utah

Species characteristics:
Form - Deciduous. Slow to moderate growth to 20' and as wide.

Trunk - Smooth pale gray bark. Tendency to multitronk.

Foliage - Leaves are blue green, 2 - 3 1/2" wide and distinctly notched, or heart shaped at base and round or slightly notched at apex. Twigs and leaf edges reddish when young. Fall coloring is light yellow.

Flowers/fruit - Brilliant display of magenta pea-like flowers, 1/2" long, in spring before the leaves, borne in small clusters on the older wood. Fruits develop in summer. Newly formed seed pods,
1 1/2 - 3" long and 1/2 -5/8" wide, are also magenta turning reddish brown and held through the winter.

No significant pest problems.

Site suitability:
Sunset zones: 2 - 24.

Clearances - Suitable for 2 -3' parkways or 3 x 3' cutouts and under utility lines.

Good for streetsides, medians, parks and lawns.

Culture considerations:
Available in single or multitmnk. Tolerates drought once established. Prefers deep soil with good drainage. Tolerates clay soil.