Redbud, Eastern

This charming tree bursts into color with clusters of rose-pink flowers that many people consider to be the first sign of spring. This is the Eastern Redbud, or the Cercis canadensis. It is a popular ornamental tree and is relatively small, often maxing out at 30 feet tall. It is common in forest edges and fields. Look for its distinct, heart-shaped leaves with blunt tips and flat, brown seed pods that persist through the winter. These seed pods are packed with protein! You might notice this tree's reddish inner bark beneath the scaly, brown outer layer.