Cercis glabra, the smooth redbud, is a small deciduous tree or large shrub native to China, known for its attractive pinkish-purple flowers.
At-a-glance light, water, soil, and growing conditions from plant data
Full Sun to Partial Shade
75% intensity
Prefers full sun for best flowering, but tolerates partial shade.
Moderate
50% intensity
Water regularly after planting, then occasionally during drought. Ensure good drainage.
Well-drained
50% intensity
Moderate
50% intensity
Hardy in USDA zones 5-9. Prefers mild to warm climates.
Low
25% intensity
Fertilize sparingly in early spring if needed, with a balanced fertilizer.
Safety information from plant toxicity data
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Toxic for humans | No 0/5 intensity |
| Toxic for pets | No 0/5 intensity |
| Edible | No |
Non-toxic
Key traits and growing stats from plant data
Watering, pruning, propagation, and repotting details from plant data
Water newly planted smooth redbuds regularly to establish a strong root system.
Once established, they are drought-tolerant but benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells, especially in hot climates.
Aim to keep the soil consistently moist but not waterlogged, reducing watering frequency as the plant matures.
Prune to shape the tree, remove dead, damaged, or crossing branches, and improve air circulation.
The best time for pruning is typically in late winter or early spring before flowering, though light thinning can be done after flowering. Avoid heavy pruning, which can stress the plant.
Propagation is most successful from seed, which requires a period of cold stratification to break dormancy. Cuttings can be attempted, but rooting is often difficult and slow.
Grafting onto a more vigorous rootstock is another method used by nurseries for reliable results.
Repotting is rarely necessary for established trees as they prefer to be undisturbed. Young plants grown in containers may need repotting every 2-3 years to refresh the soil and provide more space for root growth.
Use a well-draining potting mix and repot in early spring.
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Monthly activity intensity for bloom and fruit across both hemispheres.
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Flowering & fruiting calendar
Photos of Smooth Redbud (Cercis glabra)
Common names and botanical synonyms
Botanical classification
| Rank | Name |
|---|---|
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Division | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Magnoliopsida |
| Order | Fabales |
| Family | Fabaceae |
| Genus | Cercis |
| Species | Cercis glabra |
Similar in genus Cercis
Answers based on plant encyclopedia data
