Cercis Canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Plants travel upright in enclosed trucks - not general couriers. Learn more
Eastern Redbud / Purple Redbud
Botanical Name: Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Family: Fabaceae
Origin: Eastern North America (cultivar)
Plant Type: Deciduous small tree / large shrub
Overview
A standout Eastern Redbud selection prized for its rich burgundy-purple, heart-shaped leaves and blossom-on-bare-wood display. In late winter–spring, rose-pink pea-like flowers smother the branches before foliage unfurls deep purple, ageing to bronze-green in heat, then orange-red in autumn. Compact, ornamental, and ideal as a feature tree for temperate/Mediterranean South Australian gardens.
Key Features
- Mature Size: 4-6 m H x 4-6 m W (rounded canopy)
- Growth Rate: 20-40 cm per year under good conditions
- Foliage: Deep burgundy/purple spring growth; can bronze/green in summer; orange-red autumn colour
-
Flowers: Rose-pink clusters on bare stems late winter–spring (Aug–Oct SA); lightly fragrant
- Seasonal Interest: Pink blossom on bare wood; dramatic foliage colour spring–autumn
- Wildlife Value: Attracts bees and other pollinators
- Tolerance: Drought-tolerant (once established), heat-tolerant, wind-tolerant; light–moderate frost hardy. Best away from exposed salt spray
- Planting Density: Avenue/specimen: 1 tree per 16–25 m² (space 4–5 m apart) depending on canopy
- Pet Friendly: Generally non-toxic; any ingestion may upset pets
Where It Works Best
- Sunlight: Full sun to part shade (in hot sites, provide afternoon shade to reduce leaf scorch and colour fade)
- Soil: Well-drained loam or clay loam; avoid waterlogging
- Water Needs: Establishment 2 deep soaks/week for 8–12 weeks. Established: deep soak every 10–14 days in summer; monthly in winter if dry
- Maintenance: Light shape/prune after flowering; mulch spring; feed lightly in early spring
- Lifespan: 25-50 years
- Climate Zones: Temperate & Mediterranean SA; sheltered coastal interiors
- Soil pH: Neutral (tolerates slightly acidic to mildly alkaline if free-draining)
Landscape & Design Ideas
- Feature/specimen for courtyards, entries and lawn islands
- Small shade tree near patios and seating; striking contrast with silver or evergreen backdrops
- Underplant with spring bulbs or low groundcovers for layered seasonal colour
Why You Will Love It
A high-impact four-season ornamental—pink spring blossom, sumptuous purple foliage, and glowing autumn tones—bringing reliable drama to compact gardens with minimal fuss.