Merlot Eastern Redbud

Merlot Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Merlot')

Merlot Eastern Redbud delivers the classic redbud spring bloom, then follows with a rich, wine-dark canopy that keeps your landscape looking bold and finished through the growing season. In early spring, bright pink flowers line the bare branches, creating a strong seasonal highlight before the leaves emerge. As the tree leafs out, glossy, heart-shaped foliage develops deep burgundy-purple tones that add contrast and make surrounding greens look sharper. It is a polished small tree choice when you want dependable spring color and dramatic foliage without a complicated care routine.

Distinctive Features

This Eastern redbud stands out for its thick, glossy leaves that hold a saturated burgundy to purple tone, especially with good sun exposure, while the spring bloom display remains showy and abundant. The branching framework adds winter character, and the dark canopy provides a refined backdrop for perennials and shrubs below. It grows with a rounded canopy and typically reaches about 12 to 15 feet tall with a similar spread, offering a compact, well-scaled ornamental tree that fits easily into residential landscapes.

Growing Conditions

• Sun: Full sun to part shade, with more sun supporting the best 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 dark canopy can contrast with lighter plantings and be seen from key viewing areas.
• Small Space Specimen: Adds bold foliage and spring blooms in a size that works for tighter beds and patios.
• Foundation Accent: Breaks up walls and evergreen masses with a rich canopy color and neat form.
• Patio and Courtyard Interest: Provides light shade and a dramatic canopy close to outdoor living spaces.
• Mixed Border Anchor: Pairs well with gold foliage, variegated shrubs, and flowering perennials for layered contrast.

Low Maintenance Care

• Planting: Choose a site with good drainage and enough room for the canopy to mature naturally.
• Mulching: Maintain a mulch ring to conserve moisture and reduce weeds, keeping mulch off the trunk.
• Pruning: Prune lightly after flowering to remove dead or crossing branches and preserve a balanced structure.
• Watering: Deep water during the first growing season and during drought to support steady growth and leaf quality.
• Monitoring: Watch for stress during hot, dry stretches and respond with deep watering to keep foliage looking its best.

Why Choose Merlot Eastern Redbud?

• Wine-Dark Foliage: Deep burgundy leaves deliver season-long contrast and a refined look.
• Spring Flower Show: Bright pink blooms create a classic early-season highlight.
• Compact Size: A smaller mature habit that fits front yards, patios, and mixed beds.
• Polished Presence: Glossy leaves and a neat canopy make the tree look intentional without constant shaping.
• Easy Seasonal Interest: Combines spring color and dramatic foliage with straightforward care.

If you want a redbud that brings both spring bloom and a deeper, more dramatic canopy, Merlot Eastern Redbud is a strong choice. It offers a vivid early-season display, then keeps your landscape looking sharp with rich foliage color that holds attention all season.