Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud

Cercis canadensis Flame Thrower (Eastern Redbud)

Cercis canadensis ‘Flame Thrower’, commonly known as Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud, is an extraordinary deciduous ornamental tree celebrated for its colorful foliage and compact form. This striking tree produces clusters of delicate, pea-shaped pink flowers early in spring, adorning bare branches before its leaves unfurl. As the growing season progresses, the tree’s heart-shaped leaves emerge in an array of vibrant colors, starting as rich burgundy and transitioning to golden yellow, chartreuse, and green tones. Often, multiple shades appear simultaneously on each branch, creating an eye-catching palette that brightens any garden or landscape.

With its manageable size, reaching 15–20 feet in both height and width, Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud is ideal for smaller gardens, patios, or as a bold specimen tree in larger landscapes. Thriving in USDA zones 5–9, it flourishes in full sun to part shade and adapts to various soil types, including clay, provided they are well-drained. This tree is moderately drought-tolerant once established and attracts pollinators like bees and butterflies, contributing to a healthy garden ecosystem. Flame Thrower is also deer-resistant, making it a practical choice for areas with wildlife activity. Its foliage remains vibrant from spring through fall, offering sustained visual appeal throughout the year.

Care Instructions

• Light Requirements: Prefers full sun for optimal flowering and leaf coloration but tolerates partial shade.
• Soil Preferences: Grows best in moderately fertile, well-drained soils; avoid excessively wet or compacted areas.
• Watering Needs: Water deeply and consistently during the first growing season to establish a strong root system; reduce watering once established.
• Fertilization: Apply a balanced fertilizer in early spring to promote healthy growth and blooming.
• Pruning Guidelines: Prune in late winter or early spring to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain its shape.
• Spacing: Space trees 15–20 feet apart to ensure proper air circulation and growth.

Cercis canadensis ‘Flame Thrower’ is a dazzling addition to any garden or landscape. Its heart-shaped leaves, vibrant foliage, and manageable size make it a show-stopping ornamental tree with year-round charm and easy-care requirements.