Redbud, Midnight Express

Cercis canadensis 'Midnight Express'

Height: 20-30ft
Spread: 10-20ft
Zone: 5-8
Exposure: Full sun
Growth Rate: Moderate
Bloom Time/Color: April; pink
Fall Color: Yellow
Uses: Specimen, ornamental, naturalizing
Maintenance: Low
Tree Shape: Round, irregular
Other: Deer resistant, Burgundy with green undertone leaves

In Iowa, redbuds are often a sign that spring has arrived when it colors our landscapes in cotton candy like clouds of pink. Redbuds are characterized by their miniscule pink flowers, which grow directly out of the bark and branches, in early spring before fading amid the emergence of leaves. 'Midnight Express' has rich burgundy leaves with lovely green undertones. Brown seed pods mature in summer and can add interest to the rounded canopies in fall. Redbuds do best in fertile, well-drained soils in part shade and benefit from a layer of mulch to retain moisture. They will however tolerate clay and variances in soil pH's. 

Cercis canadensis is an Iowa native.

**Photos courtesy of Proven Winners**