Cercis canadensis Ruby Falls (Redbud)

Noted for its unique weeping habit, award-winning Cercis canadensis ‘Ruby Falls’ (Redbud) is a compact, deciduous tree with profuse, pea-like, dark rose flowers that arise before the foliage in spring on bright red stems. The cheerful blossoms are on display for several weeks before being joined by glossy, heart-shaped maroon-red leaves

Noted for its unique weeping habit, award-winning Cercis canadensis 'Ruby Falls' (Redbud) is a compact, deciduous tree with profuse, pea-like, dark rose flowers that arise before the foliage in spring on bright red stems. The cheerful blossoms are on display for several weeks before being joined by glossy, heart-shaped maroon-red leaves held on pendulous branches. As spring turns to summer, the foliage turns burgundy before maturing to green in late summer. The small stature of this Redbud makes it a great addition to small gardens.

  • Recipient of the prestigious Award of Garden Merit of the Royal Horticultural Society.
  • Grows up to 6 ft. tall (180 cm) and 4 ft. wide (120 cm).
  • A full sun to part shade lover, this Redbud is easily grown in well-drained soils. Performs best in moderately fertile soils with regular and consistent moisture. Best flower production is obtained in full sun, but part shade is best in hot summer climates. Needs a winter chill before the flowers set properly.
  • Attracts birds, butterflies, and bees.
  • Perfect choice as a specimen plant.
  • Generally pest free. Watch for canker, verticillium wilt, dieback, leaf spots, mildew, and blights. Deer tolerant.
  • Does not transplant well. It should be planted when young and left undisturbed.
  • Needs very little pruning. Remove diseased, damaged congested, or crossing shoots.
  • Propagate by semi-hardwood cuttings.
  • Cercis canadensis species is native to eastern and central North America from Connecticut to New York to southern Ontario and the Great Lakes south to western Texas and Florida.

Requirements

Hardiness 5
– 9

Heat Zones 2
– 9

Climate Zones 1, 1A, 1B, 2, 2A, 2B, 3, 3A, 3B, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24
Plant Type Trees
Plant Family Cercis – Redbuds
Exposure Full Sun, Partial Sun
Season of Interest Spring (Early,Mid,Late)Summer (Early,Mid,Late)Fall
Height 5'
– 6'
(150cm
– 180cm)
Spread 3'
– 4'
(90cm
– 120cm)
Spacing 48″ (120cm)
Water Needs Average
Maintenance Low
Soil Type Chalk, Clay, Loam, Sand
Soil pH Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Soil Drainage Well-Drained
Characteristics Plant of Merit, Showy
Tolerance Clay Soil, Deer
Attracts Bees, Birds, Butterflies, Hummingbirds
Garden Uses Beds and Borders, Small Gardens
Garden Styles Informal and Cottage, Traditional Garden