Redbud Seeds - Eastern

(Cercis canadensis L.) Deciduous. Zones 3-9.

Eastern Redbud is a beautiful native tree species with a short, maroon-purple trunk and umbrella-shaped canopy that is smothered in a lavender-pink blossoms in early Spring. Eastern Redbud is easy to start from seed, and grows in the wild from the Eastern coast of Canada down to Texas.

Redbud is happy as an understory tree in part shade; out in the open, in full sun, it will grow taller and bloom more prolifically. Its copious, tight clusters of fragrant flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies. Leaves are glossy and heart shaped. 

Belonging to the pea and bean family, the flowers resemble pea blossoms, and both flowers and tender pods are edible - enjoy them, much like peas, steamed with butter and salt. 

As the pods mature, they become brown and papery, and the seeds can be collected in Fall before they drop. 

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Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 9

Edible: Yes

Size: Large Tree 15-30 feet

Growth Rate: Medium to Fast

Nitrogen Fixer: No

Native Plant: Yes

Germination: 40-60 %

Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade

Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, deep sandy loam

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 GROWING INSTRUCTIONS

- Soak seeds for 24 hours, beginning with hot water. Scarify seeds well. Follow with 60 days of cold, moist stratification. For more information on soaking, scarification, and stratification, check out our article "How To Start Your Tree Seeds".

*If you are doing the cold period in your fridge, please check on your seeds. 60 days is an estimate & they may sprout sooner.*

- Plant stratified seeds in deep pots or a nursery bed using standard potting soil. Heat mats are NOT required & can hinder germination!

- Protect young tree seedlings from slugs, cutworms & rodents. Slugs especially can eat primary leaves as soon as they come up, so be vigilant!