Chain-flowered Redbud
 

Mature Size, Growth, Longevity

Rounded habit, 20-25' tall. Some trees have grown to 40'. Somewhat wide-spreading.

Native Range

Native to central and western China. Introduced in 1907 by E.H. Wilson.

Flower and Fruit Details

Unique, light pink to silver/rose/purple flowers are produced in mid-spring, in 2-4"-long, pendulous chains (racemes), each with 20-40 flowers, resembling wisteria in appearance. Flower color is not as vivid as on other redbud types. Fruit is a tan/brown pod in the fall, persisting.

Leaf and Bark Features

Deciduous: Small, alternate, simple, cordate leaves with pubescent, glaucous undersides, with purple veins. Leaves are light-green to blue-green. Fall color is yellow-green to yellow or gold. Notable Bark: Larger branches are gray to sandy-brown. Smooth, gray bark on older trees.

Culture and Care

Must be protected during cold winters below zero to -5°F to prevent flower bud kill and stem injury. Needs full sun to part shade, and moist, well-drained soil. Zones 7-9. Cold damage from hard winters makes the plant more susceptible to attack from insects and diseases such as cankers.

Strengths, Weaknesses, Other Facts

4-season interest: Spring, Summer, Fall & Winter. May not perform well after colder winters in Zone 6. Flower buds have been killed (and stems also damaged) in some locations at -5°F. Also susceptible to deer damage.

Suggested Uses

Makes a showy specimen plant, feature plant, or small shade tree for small landscapes.

Taxa and Plants of this Species at BCA