N.C. Forest Service - Eastern Redbud

Selecting a Planting Site for a Small Tree

• Choose a location with at least 15 feet of open space.
• Leave at least 5 feet between the tree, sidewalks and hardscapes.

If you cannot plant your tree in the ground within 24 hours, plant it in a pot with potting soil temporarily so it will survive until you find the right spot.

Notes:  Eastern redbud is one of the earliest trees to flower in the spring. Its flowering can mark the transition from winter to spring.

Description: Eastern redbud is a common tree throughout North Carolina and can be found growing wild as well as in urban plantings. It is a small tree that grows well in smaller planting sites and ornamental tree lawns. Its branches can be prone to wind damage, and protected growing sites will benefit these trees. In the fall, the heart-shaped leaves turn a bright yellow, and in very early spring the tree produces bright pink or fuchsia flowers.

Wildlife Benefits: Eastern redbuds offer many benefits for wildlife. The flowers provide nectar for bees and butterflies, and it is an important food source for caterpillars that are a critical food source for baby birds who cannot yet digest seeds or berries. Heavy caterpillar populations can cause partial defoliation (leaf loss), but this typically doesn’t harm the tree long term.  The seed pods provide food for bobwhite quail, cardinals, wild turkeys and squirrels. 

Return to STEP TWO: HOW TO PLANT YOUR TREE.