“The Eastern Redbud is a terrific choice for spring planting,” says Paul Abbey of Rooted in Trees. That’s due to its rapid establishment, striking early-season blooms, and adaptability to various soil conditions. 

“Pinkish-purple flowers develop before the spectacular heart-shaped leaves emerge, all in early spring,” Abbey says.

“Eastern redbud grows rapidly,” agrees certified arborist Mason Hanrahan. New shoots reach up to 2 feet in a single growing season, Hanrahan says, and they burst with magenta flowers in early spring, before the leaves come in.

“The flowers fill the canopy so thickly that they grow from the trunk,” Hanrahan says. “The tree strikes a useful balance between shade and visual interest.”

The Eastern Redbud’s canopy can reach as wide as 30 feet at maturity and grow up to 25 feet tall.

Abbey says the tree likes full sun but will tolerate some shade. Its flowers attract early-season pollinators. He recommends growing Eastern Redbuds in multiples for full impact.