Eastern redbud’s pink to purple bloom show in the early spring tells us the turkeys are gobbling and that the flowering dogwoods will be in full effect a couple of weeks later. It’s really the blooms that make redbud one of the most popular landscape inclusions, but the heart shaped leaves, small stature, tolerance to a wide range of sites and light frequencies add to its appeal as well. If you’re looking for some spring color to accent your yard, line the drive, or even provide a natural backdrop to photos of your recently harvested, early season gobblers, think redbud.

Redbuds will grow in just about any soil pH or site as long as it doesn’t stay too wet, and will tolerate shady conditions to boot. The redbud’s leaves, seeds, and blooms are utilized by a wide range of species including deer, turkey, songbirds, and pollinators. So they appeal to the eye and feed wildlife? What a concept!