Cercis canadensis 'JN16' ~ Black Pearl™ Redbud

Cercis canadensis 'JN16' ~ Black Pearl™ RedbudThe Black Pearl Redbud typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) with a similar spread. It has a rounded shape and its heart shaped leaves emerge as a rich, glossy purple black color in spring. As the season progresses, the foliage transitions to a deep greenish purple shade. In fall, the leaves may turn yellow before dropping. In early spring, before the leaves appear, the Black Pearl Redbud produces clusters of small, pink to

The Black Pearl™ Redbud typically grows to a height of 20 to 30 feet (6 to 9 meters) with a similar spread. It has a rounded shape and its heart-shaped leaves emerge as a rich, glossy purple-black color in spring. As the season progresses, the foliage transitions to a deep greenish-purple shade. In fall, the leaves may turn yellow before dropping.

In early spring, before the leaves appear, the Black Pearl™ Redbud produces clusters of small, pink to purple flowers along its branches. These flowers provide a beautiful contrast against the dark foliage and attract pollinators like bees and butterflies.

This cultivar thrives in full sun to partial shade and prefers well-draining soil. It is relatively low-maintenance and can tolerate a range of soil conditions. Regular watering is important, especially during dry periods, to help the tree establish and maintain its health.

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: Famartin, 2020-04-03 14 04 12 Eastern Redbud flowers along Tranquility Court in the Franklin Farm section of Oak Hill, Fairfax County, Virginia, CC BY-SA 4.0, (2) Famartin, 2020-04-06 12 31 03 Eastern Redbud blooming along Tranquility Court in the Franklin Farm section of Oak Hill, Fairfax County, Virginia, CC BY-SA 4.0

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