Lavender Twist Redbud is a unique small selection of the native deciduous tree with slightly contorted weeping branches making a dense umbrella-shaped crown.  The strongly heart-shaped blue-green leaves emerge with a red tints and turns yellow in the fall.  The heavy profusion of lavender-pink flowers blooms on bare branches in early spring before the foliage comes in attracting butterflies.   Prefers partial sun and rich well-drained soils with consistent moisture.  Tolerates deer and Black Walnuts.

Cercis canadensis is an important host for the Henry's Elfin Butterfly and supports a specialized bee- the Southeast Blueberry Bee.  Its nectar is an early food source for several butterflies, bees, and hummingbirds.  The seedpods are enjoyed by birds and wildlife. 

MAINTENANCE NEEDS: Low maintenance.  Canker can be a significant disease problem. Various diseases and pests and be prevented with regular watering and pruning of dead branches. Does not transplant well, plant when young and leave undisturbed.

LANDSCAPE USES: Specimen or mass plantings, Borders, Naturalized Areas, Woodland Garden, Wildlife Gardens, Screening, and Shade Tree. 

COMPANION PLANTS: Witch Hazel, Hydrangea, Japanese Forest Grass

IMAGES: Photo by David J. Stang, Cercis canadensis Covey 8zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (2) cultivar413, 160722 072 Chi Bot Gdn Circle Gdn, (3) Photo by David J. Stang, Cercis canadensis Covey 3zz, CC BY-SA 4.0, (4) Photo by David J. Stang, Cercis canadensis Covey 1zz, CC BY-SA 4.0

* As plants have ranges in appearance they may not appear as the images shown.