Carolina Nature

Trees, Shrubs, and Woody Vines of North Carolina

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

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Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Eastern Redbud is a fairly common understory tree with large cordate (heart-shaped) alternate leaves. In North Carolina, Eastern Redbud is primarily found in the Mountain and Piedmont regions.

Orange Co., NC 5/16/09.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

In early spring, redbuds produce masses of pink flowers.

Durham, NC 3/22/2012.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

The flowers are borne on short spur branches or sometimes directly from the trunk.

Durham, NC 3/22/2012.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

The flowers are edible and make a colorful addition to salads.

Durham, NC 3/22/2012.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

The twigs tend to grow in a zigzag pattern.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Chapel Hill, NC 4/11/04.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Occasionally flower masses emerge directly from the trunk. Chapel Hill, NC 4/11/04.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

On rare trees, flowers are pale pink or even white.
Duke Forest, Orange Co., NC 4/6/05.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Flat fruit pods develop soon after the flowers drop. These dry pods turn brown when ripe.

Granville Co., NC 4/29/07.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Bark of a young tree.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Trunks are often forked.

Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis)

Bark of a medium-sized tree.

More information:
Silvics Manual
Virginia Tech Dendrology Wikipedia

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