Cercis canadensis var.texensis Merlot - Eastern Redbud

The Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' is a recent variety of Canadian Redbud, also known as Judas Tree, notable for its purple foliage that lasts for 8 months. As for its pink flowering, this is the star of the show: its pink-purple butterfly-shape flowers appear on the trunk and bare branches. Then, they give way to heart-shaped leaves, reddish-purple in early spring, which evolve to purple-red and dark green before falling. It is hardy down to -25°C (-13 °F) and its drought resistance makes it an easy tree to grow and cultivate for gardeners. The purple Judas tree will be particularly highlighted when planted alone or in the background of a flower bed.

The Cercis canadensis belongs to the Fabaceae family, with the species originating from Canada. This small tree or bush, with a bushy habit and branching vegetation from the base, reaches a height of 2m (6 ft 7 in) and a width of 1m (3 ft 4 in), with normal growth. The flowers appear before the leaves, usually in April, directly on the branches, even those located at the base of the bush. In this Merlot cultivar, they are in the shape of a pink-purple pea flower. The deciduous foliage emerges reddish-purple, then turns into a bright purple-red, and finally becomes dark green in autumn. The leaves are heart-shaped and measure 8 to 10 cm (3.1 to 3.9 in) in length. The fruits, in autumn, have a pod-like shape and are also striking.

The Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' tolerates all types of soils as long as it benefits from good drainage. It prefers sunny positions, but also accepts a semi-shaded location sheltered from cold winds. Its drought tolerance, once established, makes it an ideal shrub for dry gardens. Similarly, its great hardiness allows it to withstand temperatures as low as -25°C (-13 °F). Its habit is naturally bushy, but it is possible to prune it from the start to train it on a stem, giving it a more spreading habit.

The Canadian Redbud will display all its splendour when planted alone on a lawn or placed in the background of a flower bed alongside other bushes. For a striking effect, associate it with a medium sized summer-flowering clematis to brighten up its purple foliage, such as the delicate white frills of the Clematis Maria Skłodowska Curie.