Oklahoma Sparkler Redbud

The sun sure does sparkle in Oklahoma, and that’s what it does everywhere when it shines on the Oklahoma Sparkler Redbud – because this tree has amazingly glossy leaves that really attract attention. It is similar to the well-known variety ‘Oklahoma’, a favorite in hot states, but more cold tolerant. So now, in cooler zones, you can have that same famous sparkle on your redbud tree. Growing to 15 feet tall and wide, and likely maturing one day as much as 20 feet each way, this vigorous tree has the classic heart-shaped leaves (the less romantic say ‘kidney-shaped’), but they’re much more glossy and attractive. Plus, the new leaves in spring, and on the ends of the branches as growth continues, are a striking dark red-purple color. The bark is almost black, and gives a striking look in winter, and also in spring, when the whole tree bursts into a fabulous display of rich purple-pink blooms. These not only cover the stems, they often sprout in clusters directly from the larger branches and even from the trunk. Each tiny bloom is like a pea-blossom, and this tree stands out for miles around when in bloom. Grow it as a lawn specimen, or at the back of a bed. Great against a backdrop of deciduous trees, and this is a selection of a native tree, so it’s great for natural gardening. Note that this same tree is sometimes sold as Sparkling Wine™.

• Very glossy and thick heart-shaped leaves are red-purple when new
• Prolific spring blooming of purple-pink flowers on the bare branches
• Striking winter profile of black stems
• Good cold-tolerance – superior to the classic glossy variety ‘Oklahoma’
• A fabulous tree for smaller gardens, and easy to grow

The Oklahoma Sparkler Redbud is hardy even in zone 5, but it also grows well in hot zones, right into zone 9, and in the mid-western states. Choose a spot in full sun for the best results, and plant it in any soil that is well-drained. This easy tree will grow in both acidic and alkaline soils, and in anything from sand to clay, but not in wet ground. It normally has no pest problems, and it isn’t eaten by deer. Some pruning while young is recommended to develop an attractive, open form, either as a multi-trunk tree, or a single trunk if you prefer. Doing this while young will prevent scarring of the trunk, and produce a more attractive tree for you.