Don Egolf Chinese Redbud

Don Egolf Chinese Redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Don Egolf')

Don Egolf Chinese Redbud (Cercis chinensis 'Don Egolf') is a compact, sterile cultivar renowned for its profusion of vibrant rose-purple flowers and clean, seedless growth. This ornamental deciduous shrub or small tree is especially valued for its non-invasive habit, dense flowering, and neat structure, making it a favorite for urban gardens, foundation plantings, and refined landscape designs.

Distinctive Features

'Don Egolf' bursts into bloom in early spring, covering every branch with clusters of rich magenta-pink flowers before the foliage emerges. The tree remains seedless�an unusual and desirable trait�ensuring tidy performance and no unwanted seedlings. Its upright, multi-stemmed habit matures at 10 to 12 feet tall and wide. Summer brings heart-shaped green leaves that add lush texture, followed by golden tones in fall. The cultivar was introduced by the U.S. National Arboretum and is named in honor of plant breeder Dr. Don Egolf.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Well-drained, moderately fertile soil
• Water: Moderate; provide consistent moisture while young
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Brilliant spring flowers and tidy structure make a strong visual statement
• Foundation Plantings: Compact size fits easily around homes and buildings
• Urban Gardens: Sterile and low-maintenance, ideal for high-visibility spaces
• Cottage Gardens: Soft texture and floral impact blend beautifully with other ornamentals
• Mass Plantings: Dramatic when grouped in borders or large beds

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season; becomes more drought tolerant with age
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; shape lightly after flowering if desired
• Fertilizing: Apply a balanced slow-release fertilizer in early spring
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch layer to conserve moisture and moderate soil temperature
• Protection: Provide good air circulation to help prevent leaf spot in humid regions

Why Choose Don Egolf Chinese Redbud?

• Abundant Spring Blooms: Masses of vivid flowers from trunk to tips
• Seedless Variety: No messy pods or unwanted seedlings
• Compact and Tidy: Great fit for small yards and formal plantings
• Low Maintenance: Reliable, disease-resistant, and easy to grow
• Focal Point: Showy blooms and graceful shape create early-season impact

Cercis chinensis 'Don Egolf' combines bold floral color with a clean, compact habit�making it a dependable focal point for gardeners seeking a low-maintenance, seedless redbud with standout spring performance.