Forest Pansy Redbud Tree

A Beacon of Three-Season Color

From spring to summer and well into late fall, the Forest Pansy Redbud stands out.

Erupting in a sea of delicate pink blooms in springtime, the Forest Pansy is a brilliant sight to see – and its stunning display doesn’t stop there. As the hot summer days set in, so do heart-shaped leaves in a deep maroon hue. Its elegant, eye-catching foliage is full and lush.

And you and your neighbors won’t be the only ones to reap the benefits of this lovely tree. Hummingbirds, bees, and butterflies love the Forest Pansy Redbud for its fragrant blooms and welcoming colors – making this tree a wildlife hub that celebrates nature at its best.

Plus, this versatile Redbud welcomes fall in a truly three-season display. Its dramatic burgundy foliage turns shades of delicate orange and yellow, contrasting beautifully against its gray-brown bark and the autumn landscape.

Reaching between 20 and 30 feet tall at maturity, this sweet tree fits nicely into nearly any yard. It can be used as an ornamental feature, border, or accent piece. And the Forest Pansy Redbud is hardy, too. Surviving drought as well as temperatures as low as -10 degrees Fahrenheit, this Redbud can survive and thrive from North to South.

Whether you’re searching for an ever-changing centerpiece, easy accent, or beautiful border, the Forest Pansy Redbud Tree will add stunning style and personality to any outdoor space.

Planting & Care:

Location: Redbud trees do well in locations with full sun to partial shade (afternoon shade is best). A soil pH of about 7.5 is recommended, along with well-draining soil. Avoid planting in areas that are prone to flooding or that collect standing water.

Planting: Select a site 6 to 8 feet from existing structures and about 3 feet from fences. Clear a 4 to 5-foot radius of any competing plants, weeds, or grass.

Dig a planting hole for your Redbud that is twice as wide as the diameter and as deep as the root ball. Rub the root system to loosen the outer roots. Place your tree, keeping the trunk straight and steady, while you backfill the soil, tamping down to remove any air pockets. Water thoroughly to settle the roots.

Spread 3 to 4 inches of mulch over the planting site, making sure much stays 3 inches away from the trunk of the tree.

Watering: During the first year, make sure to water your tree often enough to keep its soil moist, but not soaked. Pay close attention to your tree during the hot, dry season so that you can ensure that it receives enough water. Once your Redbud tree is established, it will be impressively drought-tolerant and can typically survive on rainfall alone.

Pruning: To shape future growth, prune Redbud trees while they’re young. Pruning also strengthens the connections of the main leaders to the trunk, so they can better support leaves and flowers.

Prune the tree in early summer, after the tree is done blooming. Begin by removing any larger lower branches and branches that cross over each other or rub together. Cut branches close to the trunk, without leaving any stubs. If several branches need to be removed, do it over the course of a few months so that the tree doesn't go into shock.

In late winter, prune any dead and diseased wood. Cut out any tiny twigs and branches that have turned brown. Also, cut off any shoots that are coming up from the bottom or out of the trunk.

Always sterilize your pruning tools with basic household rubbing alcohol to ensure a healthy cut during pruning.

Fertilizing: In early spring you can apply compost and/or a complete fertilizer such as 5-10-5 in granular form. Spread evenly around the root zone of the plant according to the label instructions. This, combined with maintaining several inches of organic mulch year-round, should be sufficient to feed the soil and keep the tree healthy.