Chinese Redbud
cercis chinensis
Also known as: ["Chinese Judas-tree","Chinese Redbud"]
Overview
A deciduous tree native to China, known for its striking pinkish-purple flowers that bloom on bare branches in early spring.
Benefits & Perks
["long-flowering","wildlife attractant (bees, butterflies, birds)","aesthetic foliage"]
Botanical Classification
| Phylum: | Magnoliophyta |
| Class: | Magnoliopsida |
| Order: | Fabales |
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Genus: | Cercis |
| Botanical Name: | Cercis chinensis |
Plant Characteristics
Basic Information
- Category: Trees
- Suitable Location: outdoor garden in a sheltered spot with good air circulation
- Suitable For:
- Is Weed: No
- Allergenicity: low
Environmental Needs
- Climate: {"temperatureRange":"5–35°C"}
- Hardiness: {"zones":"7–9"}
- Misting: rarely required, only if ambient humidity is very low
- Drainage: Fast-draining to prevent waterlogging.
- Soil Type: Well-draining, loamy soil with organic matter. Tolerates poor soils but thrives with added compost.
Maintenance Level
- Maintenance Level: moderate
- Toughness Level: moderate
- Pruning Frequency: Annually after flowering; light pruning can be done as needed throughout the year.
- Pruning Intensity: Moderate pruning to shape and remove unwanted growth; avoid heavy pruning unless necessary for healt
Care Details
Ideal Sunlight Coverage:
Full sun to partial shade (4–6 hours of direct sunlight daily). Tolerates light shade, especially in hot climates.
Sunlight Tolerance Tips:
Acclimate new plants gradually to direct sun to avoid scorching. In hot regions, provide afternoon shade. Indoors, place near a south-facing window with filtered light.
Care Requirements
Care Difficulty
moderatemoderate
Sunlight
full sun to partial shade
Rotate plant for even growth; use sheer curtains to filter intense light; avoid direct midday sun in summer.
Watering
every 7–10 days during active growth, reduce in winter
Water thoroughly but infrequently; ensure soil dries slightly between waterings; avoid overwatering to prevent root rot.
Soil
well-draining, loamy soil with moderate organic content
pH: Slightly acidic to neutral (pH 6.0–7.0).
Ensure good drainage to prevent root rot; amend with organic matter for fertility; test pH if issues arise.
Temperature
Hardy in USDA zones 5–9. Prefers temperatures between 60–75°F (15–24°C). Tolerates mild frosts but may struggle in extreme heat.
Protect from frost in early spring; water deeply before cold snaps; avoid sudden temperature fluctuations.
Fertilizing
every 4–6 weeks during spring and summer
Avoid over-fertilizing, which can damage roots; water thoroughly after fertilizing to distribute nutrients; use organic options like compost for slow release.
Propagation
Methods
Softwood cuttings in summer or seed propagation in spring.
Step-by-Step Propagation Guide
- Take 4–6 inch cuttings.
- Remove lower leaves.
- Dip in rooting hormone.
- Plant in medium.
- Maintain humidity.
- Or sow seeds shallowly and keep moist.
Best Time: Summer for cuttings; spring for seeds after last frost.
Environment
Warm, humid environment (70–75°F/21–24°C) with indirect light for cuttings; consistent moisture for seeds.
Medium
Well-draining potting mix with perlite or sand for cuttings; standard seed starting mix for seeds.
Hormone
Rooting hormone recommended for cuttings to improve success rate.
Timeline
Cuttings may root in 4–8 weeks; seeds may germinate in 2–4 weeks with warmth and moisture.
Tools Needed
Pruning shears, rooting hormone, small pots, misting spray bottle, plastic bags or propagation dome.
Quick Tips
Use sharp, clean tools for cuttings; maintain high humidity for cuttings; keep seeds consistently moist but not waterlogged.
Pruning & Repotting
Pruning Guide
Method
Use clean cuts just above a bud or branch junction; remove crossing or crowded branches to improve air circulation.
Pruning Plan
Prune to maintain shape, remove dead/diseased wood, and encourage flowering. Best done after flowering to avoid removing buds.
Tools
Pruning shears, loppers, saw (for larger branches), disinfectant for tools.
Checklist
Prune after flowering; sterilize tools; make clean cuts; remove dead/diseased wood; shape as needed.
Repotting Guide
Best Season
Early spring before new growth begins.
Pot Size
Increase pot size by 2–3 inches in diameter.
Method
Remove plant gently; trim any circling roots; place in a slightly larger pot with fresh, well-draining soil; water thoroughly.
Suggestions
Repot every 2–3 years or when roots fill the container. Young plants may need repotting annually.
Checklist
Choose appropriate pot size; use fresh soil mix; trim roots if needed; water after repotting; place in shade for a few days.
Advanced Care Tips
Watering Mastery
Watering Checklist
Check soil moisture before watering; water deeply; ensure drainage; avoid wetting foliage.
How to Apply Water Properly
Water at the base of the plant, ensuring moisture reaches the root zone. Water early in the morning to minimize evaporation and allow foliage to dry. Ensure excess water drains away to prevent waterlogging.
Watering Schedule Tips
Water deeply once a week during spring and summer; reduce frequency to every 2–3 weeks in fall and winter. Adjust based on rainfall and soil moisture.
Soil Improvement
Add compost or well-rotted manure to enhance fertility and structure; incorporate perlite or sand for drainage.
Temperature Stress Management
Signs of Temperature Issues
Chlorosis (yellowing leaves) in excessive heat; leaf drop or dieback in prolonged cold or frost.
Cold Stress
Leaves may wilt, turn brown, or drop. Growth may slow or stop. Young or newly planted trees are more susceptible.
Solution: Mulch around the base to insulate roots; protect with burlap in severe cold; avoid planting in exposed, windy sites.
Hot Stress
Leaves may scorch, wilt, or drop. Flower buds may abort. Growth may become stunted.
Solution: Provide afternoon shade; increase watering during heatwaves; use mulch to retain soil moisture.
Fertilizing Guide
Fertilizing Checklist
Use balanced fertilizer; apply in spring; water after application; avoid fall/winter feeding.
Fertilizing Method
Use a balanced, slow-release fertilizer in early spring. Apply a light dose of liquid fertilizer monthly during growing season. Reduce or stop fertilizing in fall and winter.
Common Problems & Solutions
Toxicity Warning
Cats
Non-toxicCercis chinensis is not toxic to cats. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects that would harm felines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Dogs
Non-toxicCercis chinensis is not toxic to dogs. There are no known adverse effects or toxic compounds that would harm canines if ingested.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Humans
Non-toxicCercis chinensis, commonly known as Chinese redbud, is not considered toxic to humans. There are no known toxic compounds or physiological effects associated with this plant.
🌿 Toxic Parts:
⚡ Toxic If:
if eaten
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does the Chinese Redbud require full sun?
A: Yes, it thrives in full sun to partial shade.
Q: How tall does the Chinese Redbud grow?
A: It typically reaches 15-20 feet in height.
Q: Is the Chinese Redbud suitable for small gardens?
A: While it can be pruned, it is best suited for medium to large gardens due to its size.
Quick Reference
| Family: | Fabaceae |
| Care: | moderate |
| Light: | full sun to partial shade |
| Water: | every 7–10 days during activ |
Get Expert Care Tips
Download the Plantious app for personalized care reminders and plant identification!
Google Play App Store
