Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud

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

Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud delivers the classic redbud spring bloom, then keeps the garden lively with foliage that shifts through warm, sunset tones as the season unfolds. In early spring, rosy pink flowers line the bare branches, creating a bright, welcoming display before the leaves emerge. As leaves appear, they bring a mix of orange, red, and yellow tones that stand out against darker greens nearby and keep changing with new growth. It is an easy way to add a small ornamental tree that feels colorful and dynamic from spring into summer.

Distinctive Features

This Eastern redbud is grown for its multi-color foliage, with new leaves often emerging in hot tones and then maturing toward greener shades as the canopy fills in. The combination of spring flowers and evolving leaf color extends interest well beyond bloom time, giving you a tree that continues to look active and intentional. It grows with a rounded to broadly upright habit and typically reaches about 15 to 20 feet tall with a similar spread, making it a well-scaled accent for front yards, patios, and mixed beds.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade, with more sun supporting the strongest foliage color and flowering.
• Soil: Well-drained soil is essential, and it adapts to many soil types when drainage is good.
• Water: Water regularly during establishment, then provide moderate moisture during extended dry spells.
• USDA Zones: Zones 5 to 9.
• Deer: Not reliably deer resistant, so protect young trees where browsing pressure is high.

Ideal Uses

• Focal Point: Use as a focal point where the changing foliage colors can be appreciated from primary views or near outdoor living spaces.
• Specimen Tree: Adds spring flowers and season-long foliage interest in one compact ornamental tree.
• Foundation Accent: Brightens darker corners and breaks up evergreen plantings with warm-toned leaves.
• Patio and Courtyard Interest: Provides light shade and colorful canopy in spaces where scale matters.
• Mixed Border Anchor: Pairs well with deep green evergreens, blue foliage plants, and late-season perennials for contrast.

Low Maintenance Care

• Planting: Choose a site with good drainage and room for the canopy to mature without hard pruning.
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to conserve moisture and protect roots, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to remove dead or crossing branches and maintain a balanced form.
• Watering: Deep water during the first growing season and during drought to support strong growth and foliage quality.
• Monitoring: Watch for heat stress in hot, dry periods and respond with deep watering to keep leaves looking their best.

Why Choose Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud?

• Color-Changing Foliage: New growth brings warm tones that keep the canopy looking fresh and dynamic.
• Spring Flower Show: Rosy pink blooms deliver the classic redbud highlight in early spring.
• Perfect Scale: A small ornamental tree size that fits residential landscapes without overwhelming the space.
• Strong Contrast: Warm leaf tones pop against evergreens and darker foliage in mixed plantings.
• Easy Seasonal Interest: Offers extended color with straightforward care needs.

If you want a redbud that stays colorful after the blooms fade, Flame Thrower Eastern Redbud is a great fit. It combines a reliable spring display with evolving foliage that keeps your landscape looking bright and intentional through the growing season.