Chinese redbud
Cercis chinensis 'Avondale'
Overview
The Chinese redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Avondale') is an amazing tree species that will add beauty and interest to any garden. It features stunning deep burgundy foliage throughout the warmer months of the year, which turns to an attractive reddish-purple in the fall. In spring, it produces beautiful bright pink, pea-like blossoms which can cover the entire tree! It is low maintenance, drought-tolerant, and requires minimal pruning, making it a great choice for busy gardeners. It can also tolerate and even thrive in clay soil conditions, making it an ideal choice for challenging soils. Its attractive feature and adaptable nature makes it a great addition to any garden!
Care Guide
Watering
Chinese redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Avondale') prefers moist, well-draining soils and should be watered regularly during the growing season (April-October). Water the soil until it is completely saturated, then allow it to dry before watering again. During the summer months, Chinese redbud may need to be watered every 5-7 days, depending on your climate. In the winter months, watering can be reduced to every 2-3 weeks. During particularly hot or dry spells, the Chinese redbud may need to be watered more often. Keeping the soil consistently moist, but not soggy, is key for optimum growth.
Light
Chinese redbud (Cercis chinensis ‘Avondale’) should receive 4-6 hours of direct sunlight each day. If possible, position the plant in the morning or late afternoon to minimize the intensity of the sun’s rays, though the plant can tolerate some afternoon sun. Shade from late afternoon sun can help the plant thrive during the hot summer months. If a plant does not receive enough sunlight, it may become leggy and produce fewer blooms.
Temperature
Hardiness zone 6–9.
Pruning
Chinese redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Avondale') may require pruning in order to keep the plant healthy and to maintain its shape. The best time for pruning a Chinese redbud is late winter or early spring, when the buds are beginning to swell. Pruning can be done as soon as the blooms have faded or at the beginning of the growing season. It is important to only take off a small amount of the growth in order to shape the tree. Always use clean, sharp pruning shears and never top or heavily prune the tree. This may cause the plant to produce weaker growth and may also open it up to disease. Light pruning of any dead or diseased foliage should be done at any time of the year to promote healthy growth.
Propagation
Grafting Propagation, Cutting, Air Layering Propagation, Seed Propagation
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