Mexican Redbud

Scientific Name: Cercis canadensis var. mexicana (Rose) M. Hopkins
Synonym: Cercis mexicana, Cercis reniformis
Family: Fabaceae

Recommended Temperature Zone:
Sunset®: 4-20
USDA: 6b-9

Frost Tolerance: Hardy to -5°F (-20°C)

Heat Tolerance: Does better with light shade in the low southwestern deserts.

Sun Exposure: Full sun to light shade

Origin: Chihuahuan desert of Texas and northern Mexico, near washes.

Growth Habits: Deciduous shrub or small tree, up to 20 feet tall (6 m), 20 feet spread (6 m)

Flowers: White or pink flowers

Watering Needs: Regular water, needs good drainage, drought tolerant

Propagation: Generally by seeds. Cultivars can be grafted, or propagated by cuttings in summer under mist.

The mature Mexican Redbud has a flat-topped or round form, with graceful, spreading branches.

Blooming Habits:
The deep rose edible flowers, in 4-inch clusters (10 cm), come in early spring, before the leaves arrive. They are followed by brownish red pods, up to 3 inches long (7 cm)

Fruiting Habits:
The abundant brown seedpods can create a litter problem.

Culture:
The mexican Redbuds grows better in a well drained, light soil but is fairly adaptable. Check for cankers.

Redbud wood breaks easily. The redbuds should be pruned to eliminate weak V-crotches early, since they tend to break over time. U-shaped crotches are much more resistant.