Midnight Express Eastern Redbud

Midnight Express Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Midnight Express')

Midnight Express Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Midnight Express') is a bold and refined ornamental tree celebrated for its rich purple foliage, deep pink spring flowers, and upright form. An improvement over older purple-leaved varieties, this cultivar offers enhanced color retention, a vigorous growth habit, and elegant branching structure�making it a dramatic yet dependable focal point in the landscape.

Distinctive Features

'Midnight Express' bursts into bloom in early spring with clusters of rose-pink flowers that appear along bare branches, signaling the end of winter. As the blossoms fade, deep maroon to purple heart-shaped leaves emerge and maintain their color better than other dark-foliaged redbuds. The tree develops a strong central leader with an upright-oval to rounded canopy, typically reaching 20 to 25 feet tall and 15 to 20 feet wide at maturity.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a wide range of conditions
• Water: Moderate; benefits from consistent moisture, especially in the first few years
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Dark foliage and upright form provide standout structure and color
• Front Yard Accent: Adds sophistication near entries, patios, or walkways
• Mixed Borders: Offers striking contrast with gold, green, or silver plants
• Urban Landscapes: Tolerant of compact sites and highly ornamental in street-side settings
• Pollinator Gardens: Early spring blooms support bees and beneficial insects

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water deeply and regularly during establishment; once mature, tolerates short dry spells
• Pruning: Prune after flowering to maintain shape and remove damaged branches
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Use mulch to retain soil moisture and suppress weeds
• Protection: Plant in a spot protected from strong winds to maintain leaf quality

Why Choose Midnight Express Eastern Redbud?

• Bold Purple Foliage: Rich, long-lasting color creates vivid landscape contrast
• Spring Flower Display: Bright pink blooms arrive before the foliage for maximum impact
• Upright Form: Strong central leader offers a refined, symmetrical shape
• Low Maintenance: Durable and easy to care for once established
• Focal Point: Ideal specimen tree that delivers multi-season beauty and structure

Cercis canadensis 'Midnight Express' combines deep color, elegant form, and reliable performance, making it an outstanding focal point in both contemporary and traditional garden designs.