Cercis occidentalis is
native to California, Arizona and Utah. The magenta blooms often
start before the leaves. The Western Redbud is one of the first
plants to bloom in our garden each year, usually starting in early
Feburary. Cercis occidentalis will grow to 10-20 feet depending upon
the conditions. The Western Redbud is fairly tolerant of garden
conditions as long as the soil has not become too alkaline. The
Western Redbud will lightly rebloom periodically through the Spring
and Summer. The trees were historically hard pruned to encourage
long straight slender branches that were used for basketry. The
seeds and flowers of Cercis occidentalis are edible.
High resolution images
of Cercis occidentalis are available
