Cercis canadensis 'JN21' - Oklahoma Sparkler Redbud

A wonderful small accent tree with beautiful dark lavender colored flowers in early spring, followed by thick, glossy dark-green leaves; adaptable to drier soils; older dark brown bark exfoliates to reveal orangish inner bark; a more compact redbud

Height: 15 feet. Spread: 15 feet. Sun: full sun to partial shade. Hardiness zone: 5a.

Ornamental features

Oklahoma Sparkler™ Redbud has lavender pea-like flowers with hot pink overtones along the branches from early to mid spring, which emerge from distinctive ruby-red flower buds before the leaves. It has attractive dark green deciduous foliage which emerges burgundy in spring. The small glossy heart-shaped leaves are highly ornamental and turn yellow in fall. The peeling dark brown bark adds an interesting dimension to the landscape.

Landscape

Oklahoma Sparkler™ Redbud is a deciduous tree with a more or less rounded form. Its relatively coarse texture can be used to stand it apart from other landscape plants with finer foliage.

This is a relatively low maintenance tree, and should only be pruned after flowering to avoid removing any of the current season's flowers. Deer don't particularly care for this plant and will usually leave it alone in favor of tastier treats. Gardeners should be aware of the following characteristic(s) that may warrant special consideration;

Recommended for: Accent, Mass Planting, General Garden Use.

Planting and growing

Oklahoma Sparkler™ Redbud will grow to be about 15 feet tall at maturity, with a spread of 15 feet. It has a low canopy with a typical clearance of 3 feet from the ground, and is suitable for planting under power lines. It grows at a medium rate, and under ideal conditions can be expected to live for 60 years or more.

This tree does best in full sun to partial shade. It is very adaptable to both dry and moist locations, and should do just fine under average home landscape conditions. This plant does not require much in the way of fertilizing once established. It is not particular as to soil type or pH. It is highly tolerant of urban pollution and will even thrive in inner city environments, and will benefit from being planted in a relatively sheltered location. Consider applying a thick mulch around the root zone in winter to protect it in exposed locations or colder microclimates. This is a selection of a native North American species.

Photo courtesy of NetPS Plant Finder.