Written by Margaret Baker, Development Intern
The Redbud tree (sometimes a shrub) is native to North America from Southern Ontario all the way to Northern Florida. They are considered to be part of the pea and legume family with strong characteristics of both.
The tree does not typically grow taller than about 20 feet, especially since they are usually found growing under the overhang of much taller trees in forests. But when they are able to grow free of the overhang, they can grow up to 50 feet tall.
While the standard colors of Redbuds are a deep pink during the Spring, the Fall blossom is a yellow hue but people seldom know these trees are technically Redbuds.
At a distance, Redbuds can be mistaken for Dogwoods which bloom within a week of Redbuds. The Redbud typically does not become quite as dense when it is in full bloom as the Dogwoods. Redbuds are highly adaptable to most climates and soil types (except swamp land) making them very easy to grow, great for The Cummer Gardens.