Alley Cat Redbud

You may be familiar with the gorgeous spring display of the redbud tree, but nothing will have prepared you for the summer display of the Alley Cat Redbud. No, not flowers, but intense variegation, with every leaf uniquely splashed and blotched in white. This is the most reliable and the most vibrant of the variegated redbuds, holding its color patterns right through summer, and never scorching or burning. The party gets going in early spring, when the bare branches are covered in abundant pink-purple blooms, making one of the most spectacular sights of spring. The new leaves follow, emerging copper-pink, then turning pale green, and maturing to their variegated patterning. Rather than a plain-green summer, you have a vibrant green and white display that is always fascinating. In fall the leaves turn soft yellow, falling to reveal a striking winter look of black branches that spread out elegantly. There is always something interesting to look at with this great tree. Typically rising to about 20 feet tall, although older plants could reach 30 feet, it has a dense, more rounded form when grown in full sun, and a more open, spreading form when grown in light shade. Allow room when planting for an eventual spread to 35 feet.

• Gorgeous spring display of purple-pink bloom on bare stems
• Summer-long flashy variegation – irregular white patterning on green leaves
• Striking winter profile of black stems
• Excellent small tree for sun or partial shade
• Easy and reliable tree suitable for most gardens

The Alley Cat Redbud is hardy in zone 5, but grows well right into zone 9, where it blooms in late winter. Grow it in full sun or in partial shade – some afternoon shade is especially beneficial in hot zones. It grows in any well-drained soil, from sand to clay, and in both acidic and alkaline soils as well. It looks most effective as an open, multi-stem tree, so remove inner branches gradually from an early age, to avoid scarring the smooth black trunks. Deer leave it alone, and it normally has no pest or disease problems. A spectacular tree that is easy to grow and lots of fun.