Eastern Redbud Seedlings (Cercis canadensis) Details
Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a small native tree of eastern North America, and our eastern redbud seedlings are an affordable way to plant it in numbers. In early spring, pink to rosy-purple flowers cover its bare branches before the heart-shaped leaves appear.
- Botanical name: Cercis canadensis
- Hardiness zones: 4-9
- Mature size: 20-30 feet tall, 25-35 feet wide
- Light: Full sun to part shade
- Soil: Well-drained clay, loam or sand
- Sizes: 6-12 inches or 12-18 inches, shipped bare root
- Packs: 50, 100 or 500 plants
- Ships: dug fresh from November 15 to April 15
Why Grow Eastern Redbud?
Redbud is one of the first trees to flower in spring, offering nectar to bees and other pollinators when little else is in bloom. After the flowers, the leaves fill out into a rounded crown, turn yellow in autumn, and leave a graceful branching shape for winter. Birds perch and nest in its branches, which makes it a strong choice for pollinator gardens, wildlife plantings and conservation projects.
What Soil Does Eastern Redbud Need?
Redbud adapts to acid, neutral or alkaline soil. It thrives in well-drained ground. Keep the soil evenly moist while the roots establish.
How Does Eastern Redbud Grow and Where Should You Plant It?
Redbud forms a spreading, rounded tree that fits many roles. Use it as an understory tree beside taller trees, as an accent near a path, as a flowering tree in a mixed border, or massed along a property line for a wide band of spring color. It pairs well with native ferns, woodland perennials and flowering shrubs. Space seedlings with their mature width in mind.
How Do You Plant Bare-Root Eastern Redbud Seedlings?
- Soak the roots in water for about an hour.
- Dig a hole deep and wide enough for the roots to spread without bending.
- Set the seedling so the point where the roots meet the stem sits at soil level.
- Backfill with the soil you removed, firm it gently and water well.
How Do You Care for Eastern Redbud Seedlings?
Water regularly through the first growing seasons, especially in dry spells. A ring of mulch, kept a few inches from the stem, holds moisture and keeps weeds down. Once established, redbud needs little care. Before you plant, check that your zone, light and drainage suit it.
Why Buy Eastern Redbud Seedlings From TN Nursery?
Eastern redbud is one of the trees we grow in the largest numbers, more than 200,000 at our Tennessee nursery, so every seedling pack comes fresh-dug from our own stock. Seedlings are the most economical way to plant many trees at once, whether you are a landowner, a landscaper, a restoration crew or a home gardener planting a hedgerow. If you want a larger tree for a single spot, our Redbud Tree ships at 1-4 feet. You can also browse more tree seedlings or read how to grow redbud trees.
Eastern Redbud Seedling FAQs
How fast do eastern redbud seedlings grow?
Redbud grows at a medium rate.
Where should I plant my redbud seedlings?
Plant each seedling in its permanent spot. Redbud builds a deep, sturdy root system and rewards you for choosing its home once.
What if I plant them a few days after they arrive?
Keep the roots moist and the bundle in a cool, shaded place, and plant as soon as you can.
Which size should I choose?
The 6-12 inch seedlings cost less per plant for large plantings. The 12-18 inch seedlings give you a head start.
Tammy and Dennis started TN Nursery on 12.5 acres in 1994, and today our family grows eastern redbud seedlings on more than 170 acres.
