Plant of the Month: June, 2000

by Russell Stevens

Redbud
Cercis canadensis

Characteristics: Redbud, a deciduous native perennial tree, is the state tree of Oklahoma. There are two recognized varieties: canadensis, eastern redbud, and texensis, Texas redbud. Eastern redbud, the larger of the two varieties, typically grows along streams or other low, sandy or silty ground. Texas redbud is usually found along limestone slopes and other upland sites. The normally single-trunked eastern redbud has thinner leaves that are dull green on both surfaces. Texas redbud is typically multitrunked with thick leathery leaves that are slick and shiny green above, pale green below. Leaves are simple with entire margins. Redbud flowers before the leaves open. The flowers are purple-red and bloom in March and April. Redbud fruit are legumes that mature in late summer and may form clusters and remain attached into winter. Bark is thin, gray or reddish-brown with white "spots," and densely covered with lenticels.

Area of Importance: West central Oklahoma and Texas eastward. Can be planted farther west.

Attributes: Redbud's biggest attribute is its brilliant purple-red spring blooms, for which it is widely planted as an ornamental. Other attributes include

• medicinal root and bark powder
• edible flowers, buds, and green fruits when eaten raw, boiled, stir fried, pickled, or on salads
• wood that can be used for basket weaving and bow making
• tannin, boiled from the bark, that can be used for a disinfectant, antiseptic, and tanning compound for animal skins

Problems: Leaves have a metallic taste and are poisonous to livestock and humans if eaten raw and in large amounts.

I.D. Tip: Look for trees with brilliant purple-red flowers in March and April. Redbud fruits are usually 2 to 4 inches long and may remain attached after the leaves drop in the fall. The gray or reddish-brown bark with white spots is a fairly good identification characteristic all by itself.

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Hundreds of plants are identified in the Noble Foundation Plant Image Gallery.