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The redbuds put on their best show in late winter/early spring in the Sacramento and San Joaquin valleys, producing the flowers before the tree produces leaves. The eastern redbud is better used as a tree in the home garden. The western redbud tends to be a smaller and more shrub-like, and is better suited to a naturalized area, sharing space with other drought tolerant plants.

Western Redbud

Here are some details about the Western redbud:

• A California native of the legume family, also known as the Judas tree (Easter time, coral red flowers may resemble the blood of Christ).
• Natural stands occur at 1,000-4,000 feet, in the Sierra Nevada and Coast Ranges.
• A member of the legume family, the tree produces 2-1/2" seed pods in summer and fall that persist on the tree throughout the winter. Refrigerate seed for 90 days at 40 degrees before planting.
• Medium rate of growth, to 18 feet, with an 8-15 feet spread.
• Coral red flowers, 1/2" across, in early spring.
• Likes, dry well-drained soil. Very little water needed in summer.
• Takes arid conditions, sun and heat.
• Hardy to 0 degrees.
• Pest problems: caterpillars, leaf blight.

Eastern Redbud

Here are some details about the Eastern redbud:

• Deciduous, broadleaf tree, of the legume family
• Medium to rapid growth, 25-30 feet tall, with a 20-25 feet spread
• 1/2" rosy pink flowers in early spring
• 3-inch seed pods in the fall (refrigerate at 40 degrees for 90 days before planting)
• Likes full sun, hardy to 0 degrees
• Water deeply every three weeks during growing season
• The 'Alba' cultivar has white flowers