SCIENTIFIC NAME: Cercis canadensis var. texensis ‘NC2014-10’, PP35080

COMMON NAME: Gilded Hearts™ Redbud

GARDEN SIZE: 15–20 feet tall by 15–20 feet wide

GROWTH RATE: Moderate

USDA ZONE: 6–9

EXPOSURE: Full sun to part shade. Prefers at least 4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily; some afternoon shade is beneficial in hot southern climates but may tolerate more sun than regular canadensis.

WATER & SOIL: Prefers well-drained, even rocky or calcareous soils. Far more drought-tolerant than regular canadensis once established. Avoid heavy, wet clay.

HABIT (FORM): Upright with a rounded canopy

FOLIAGE: Deciduous; glossy golden-yellow heart-shaped leaves that retain color in full sun and heat

FLOWERS: Pink blooms appear in spring before foliage

PLANT ORIGIN: Areas around Texas

WILDLIFE SUPPORT: May provide some nesting sites and shelter for birds and small mammals, but does not serve as much of a food source for local insects and wildlife.

FERTILIZING: Generally low-fertility needs. Apply apply organic compost in early spring if growth appears weak or leaves are pale.

PRUNING: Prune after flowering to shape or remove crossing branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as this species does not respond well to severe cuts. Remove dead or diseased wood at any time.

TOXICITY FLAGS: Non-toxic to humans and pets.

USES: Specimen, understory accent tree