The redbud is one of the first plants to bloom in spring. It has tiny, bright pink flowers that open before its leaves emerge, giving the tree a neon glow. The flowers, which are edible, were used as medicine by Native Americans.
Redbud is native to the eastern United States and grows 20 to 30 feet tall with a graceful, rounded crown making them nice shade trees near a deck or patio. They have taproots and grow best in slightly acidic, loamy and well-drained soils. Although they bloom best in full sun, they can tolerate some shade.
While the native species is most common, there are varieties:
- Appalachian Red blooms a little later than most redbuds making it a good plant in areas with late spring frosts
- Hearts of Gold has yellow foliage in summer
- Pink Heartbreaker grows 10 feet tall and has a weeping shape
- Silver Cloud has variegated white and green leaves
This week's tip: Here's a good way to keep a Valentine's Day flower bouquet alive well past Feb. 14:
- Cut the bottom of the stems under water to prevent air bubbles from entering the stem, blocking the flow of water
- Change water daily to stop bacterial growth
- Add something sweet to the water to feed the flowers, like soda, and something to kill bacteria, such as bleach. You can also just use the flower preservative that comes with the cut flowers
