Cercis canadensis
Eastern Redbud (var. texensis) is a beloved small native tree celebrated for its dramatic early-spring spectacle, bursting into clusters of vivid rose-pink pea-like blossoms directly along bare branches and trunk bark (cauliflory). Its rich nectar feeds early-emerging queen bumblebees and butterflies. As heart-shaped leaves unfold, they provide essential larval nutrition for Henry's Elfin butterflies (Callophrys henrici), while its dry summer seed pods persist into winter to feed northern cardinals and bobwhites.
Height: 15-40 ft.
Spread: 15-30 ft.
Foliage: Deciduous
Growth Rate: Moderate
Water Need: Low
Sun Need: Part Sun, Full Sun
Substrate / Soil: Limestone, Loam, Gravelly
Bloom Season: Mar, Apr
This species serves as an essential host plant for caterpillar larvae of: Henry's Elfin, Io Moth.
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