Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud

Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Flame Thrower')

Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Flame Thrower') is a breakthrough cultivar prized for its dazzling foliage that emerges in a blaze of red, matures to gold, and holds vibrant tones throughout the season. Combined with vivid spring flowers and a compact growth habit, this tree offers multi-season interest and powerful visual impact, ideal for use as a colorful specimen or accent tree.

Distinctive Features

'Flame Thrower' is known for its constantly shifting foliage colors. New leaves emerge bright burgundy-red, transition to yellow and orange, and eventually mature to chartreuse-green, creating a layered effect with multiple colors visible at once. In early spring, rich rosy-pink flowers appear on bare branches before the foliage emerges. The tree typically matures to 15 to 20 feet tall and 12 to 15 feet wide with a tidy, upright form and dense canopy.

Growing Conditions

• Sun Exposure: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil: Prefers moist, well-drained soil; adaptable to a range of soil types
• Water: Moderate; consistent moisture helps sustain foliage vibrancy
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 5�9

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Multi-colored foliage and compact size make it a standout specimen
• Front Yard Accent: Adds drama and seasonal interest near entryways or patios
• Mixed Borders: Provides vibrant contrast to shrubs, grasses, and evergreens
• Small Gardens: Ideal for tight spaces without sacrificing color impact
• Pollinator Gardens: Early-season blooms support bees and other beneficial insects

Low Maintenance Care

• Watering: Water regularly during the first growing season; moderately drought tolerant once established
• Pruning: Minimal pruning needed; remove deadwood or shape after bloom
• Fertilizing: Use a balanced fertilizer in early spring to support growth and flowering
• Mulching: Apply mulch to retain soil moisture and reduce temperature fluctuations
• Protection: Choose a sheltered site to prevent windburn and reduce leaf scorch in hot, dry conditions

Why Choose Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud?

• Brilliant Foliage: Constantly changing leaves display shades of red, yellow, orange, and green
• Rosy Spring Flowers: Bright blooms add early color before the foliage show begins
• Compact Habit: Upright form fits well into small landscapes and modern designs
• Low Maintenance: Adaptable and easy to grow with minimal care required
• Focal Point: One of the most colorful redbuds available for dramatic, long-lasting visual appeal

Cercis canadensis 'Flame Thrower' delivers unmatched foliage color and structure in a compact form, making it a bold focal point and a dynamic addition to gardens seeking year-round interest.