Stunning best describes the Western Redbud Tree, (Cercis occidentalis), when in full bloom packed with clusters of deep magenta color flowers. It's a native plant to the western states ranging in California, Arizona, and Utah. Naturally, it grows in washes and ravines so in the residential garden it prefers seasonal moisture and some supplemental water in the dry part of the year. It is very heat tolerant and accepts the full summer sun of the inland valleys but not deserts. It can be grown in lawn but not surrounded by lawn up to its trunk, and likes drainage areas and low spots where water gathers. It makes a great small garden tree that will grow 15'-20' high and about as wide and it's available at most nurseries as a multiple trunk or single trunk tree. Multiple trunk trees seems to be more consistent with its appearance in a natural setting and the most desired for it landscape character.
The Western Redbud Tree is deciduous, therefore, it looses all its leaves in the winter, but begins blooming flowers in early spring and goes on for several weeks. Once done blooming, the tiny flower petals drop, leaves emerge soon after the flowers drop and they continue to grow and develop throughout the year.
You may not identify this tree in the general landscape but its heart- shaped leaves and spectacular bloom are guaranteed to win your heart and make it one of you all time favorite trees.
