Ace of Hearts Redbud

For a compact, smaller variety of redbud, look no further than the Ace of Hearts Redbud. A selection of a native tree, it is remarkable for its striking spring blooms on the bare branches, a vibrant display of purple-pink that stands out for miles around. Unlike many other varieties it naturally stays smaller, no more than 12 feet tall, forming a broad dome that needs no trimming to always look great. The slightly-glossy leaves have a pronounced heart-shape, and overlap like shingles as they flow along the stems. New leaves are a beautiful deep purple-red, turning rich green for summer and then glowing yellow in fall. Even winter is a time of beauty, with the striking zig-zag stems and the near-black bark creating a great winter profile. For an easy-care small tree or large shrub, that is in bloom when much of the garden is still sleeping, this beauty will deal you a full hand of garden pleasure.

• Compact, broad, dome-like form
• No more than 12 feet tall and 15 feet wide, so ideal for smaller gardens
• Abundant, striking spring blooms of purple-pink on bare branches
• Beautiful heart-shaped leaves turn yellow in fall
• Easy to grow and needs no pruning to retain its compact form

The Ace of Hearts Redbud thrives in most well-drained soils, and enjoys full sun in most areas. In hotter, drier regions some light shade in the afternoon is ideal, but avoid too much shade or flowering will be reduced. Choose your planting spot carefully, as this tree doesn’t transplant well after a few years in the garden. Plant it where the early blooms will shine out across the garden, and be appreciated from the house. The handsome foliage makes a great backdrop for later flowers, and it is also perfect as a lawn specimen. The compact growth is natural, and pruning is not needed. Generally free of serious pest or disease problems, except perhaps in old age, and ignored by deer, who will find something better to eat.