Previous species

Next Species

Home Page

Mexican Redbud
Scientific Name: Cercis canadensis var. mexicana (Rose) M. Hopkins
Synonym: Cercis mexicana, Cercis reniformis
Family: Fabaceae

Show Larger Picture

Recommended Temperature Zone: sunset: 4-20 USDA: 6b-9 Frost Tolerance: Hardy to -5°F (-20°C) Heat Tolerance: Does better with light shade in the low southwestern deserts. Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade Origin: North America Growth Habits: Deciduous shrub or small tree, up to 25 feet tall (8 m), 25 feet spread (8 m) Watering Needs: Regular water in summer Propagation: Seeds, cultivars can be grafted, or propagated by cuttings in summer under mist.

Cultural Practices:
The mexican Redbuds grows better in a well drained, light soil but is fairly adaptable. Check for cankers.

Redbud wood breaks easily. The redbuds should be pruned to eliminate weak V-crotches early, since they tend to break over time. U-shaped crotches are much more resistant.

Blooming Habits:
The deep rose edible flowers, in 4-inch clusters (10 cm), come in early spring, before the leaves arrive. They are followed by brownish red pods, up to 3 inches long (7 cm)