Redbud

Cercis canadensis

Overview

The Redbud is a beautiful, rounded tree that blossoms purple/pink flowers in the spring with reddish, heart-shaped leaves that turn green in the summer, then yellow in winter. This tree is smaller and can grow up to 30 feet with branches spreading as wide as 35 feet that create a flat top. The inner bark of the Redbud is sometimes used to treat colds and infections. 

Cultivation

The Redbud tree is low maintenance and can withstand drought once mature. However, when the tree is younger and its roots have not dug deep enough, it requires a lot of water. The Redbud can withstand most conditions with the exception of below-freezing temperatures, ice, and wind storms because it lacks the woody tissue that is present in sturdier trees.

Biodiversity Sustained 

The Redbud tree provides shelter for small mammals like squirrels and nesting sites for some birds. Butterflies and other species that feed on nectar are drawn to the Redbud's colorful flowers in the spring, and it's seeds are often eaten by various birds. 

On Xavier's Campus, over the Next 20 Years, this Tree will:

Stormwater Runoff Intercepted: 3,888 gallons

CO2 Reduction: 1,694 lbs

Environmental Benefits (in US dollars) Over the Next Decade: $117