Cercis 'Appalachian Red' Eastern Redbud
Best low-maintenance ornamental tree for vibrant spring color in diverse climates.
The Cercis 'Appalachian Red' Eastern Redbud is a striking cultivar celebrated for its vivid, deep fuchsia red spring blooms that appear profusely before the foliage emerges. This ornamental tree features large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge blue-green and transition to a pleasing yellow in autumn before dropping. Discovered in Maryland and released by the University of Tennessee, this variety is known for its hardiness, withstanding heat and humidity while resisting most common pests and diseases. It thrives in various soil types, including clay and poor soils. Expect this tree to reach a mature height and spread of 15 to 25 feet, making it an excellent specimen or border planting in USDA Zones 4-9.
$39.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
313
/ 1238
#313 in Trees
Price vs Category Average
-63%
Below average
Variety
'Appalachian Red'
/ 'Appalachian Red'
Who it's for
- Gardeners seeking high-impact early spring floral displays
- Urban homeowners with limited yard space
- Busy gardeners wanting low-maintenance native plants
Who should skip it
- Gardeners in areas with poor drainage or disease pressure
- People unable to provide consistent moisture and partial shade
- Homeowners looking for long-lived, storm-resistant shade trees
Performance breakdown
Bloom Intensity
Vivid fuchsia flowers create a high-impact display every spring.
Environmental Resilience
Handles heat, humidity, and poor soil conditions with remarkable ease.
Establishment Speed
Reliable first-year flowering ensures immediate gratification for new gardeners.
Pest Resistance
Natural durability minimizes the need for chemical interventions or maintenance.
Seasonal Versatility
Heart-shaped foliage provides attractive color transitions throughout the growing season.
Landscape Adaptability
Ideal size and form for both specimen and border planting applications.
Key Specs
Variety
'Appalachian Red'
Genus/Species
Cercis canadensis
Item Form
2-Gallon Bareroot
Mature Height
25 Feet
Mature Width
25 Feet
Hardiness Zones
4 - 9
Bloom Color
Red
Foliage Color
Blue Green to Yellow
Features
- Blooms profusely and the flowers are long-lasting
- Blooms the first year
- Suitable for use as a specimen or border planting
What customers say
Customers are consistently thrilled with the quality and striking design of the 'Appalachian Red' Redbud. The primary delight centers on the vibrant, true red color of the blooms, which often exceeds expectations, making it a standout feature in the landscape. Reviewers frequently note that the plants arrive healthy, well packaged, and ready to thrive, indicating high quality control. While the initial size sometimes prompts discussion, the successful establishment and reliable growth trajectory confirm its strong value proposition for gardeners seeking reliable, high impact color.
Know before you buy
Yes, this cultivar is known for blooming in its first year, so you can expect to see those signature deep fuchsia flowers shortly after planting.
The 'Appalachian Red' reaches a mature height and spread of 15 to 25 feet. You should plant it in a location that allows for a 25-foot canopy to ensure it has enough room to thrive.
Absolutely. This variety is notably hardy and performs well in a wide range of soil conditions, including clay and poorer soils where other ornamental trees might struggle.
No special maintenance is required. This specific cultivar was selected for its natural resilience and is highly resistant to most common pests and diseases, making it a low-maintenance choice for your landscape.
The tree features large, heart-shaped leaves that emerge with a blue-green hue in the spring. As the season progresses, the foliage transitions to a vibrant yellow in the autumn before dropping for the winter.
Yes, the 'Appalachian Red' is specifically noted for its ability to withstand heat and humidity. It is well-suited for gardeners in USDA Zones 4 through 9.
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$40