Lavender Twist Redbud.  Photos by Miss Pegi. (Pegi Costantino.)  May, 2014.

By Miss Pegi

The Eastern Redbud is in bud and about to open to full bloom. This native species is a gorgeous small tree that gets about 30 feet tall and just as wide. Compared to the mighty oak, that is small. They strut their stuff alongside the native Dogwood and the lovely white flowering Fothergilla. The redbud’s flowers are followed by heart shaped leaves that flutter in the breeze and dangling pea-like pods that have their own appeal. These are harbingers of spring with brilliant blasts of color that are both bold and delicate. It is all loveliness.

Redbud blooms, but it’s not a Little Woody.

But here in cozy OG, a 30 ft. tree in your yard would take up every square inch of space you may have and more than likely you don’t have. So here are a few ideas that just may allow you to have the joy of these spring beauties under tight quarters. Beyond the wild and magnificent Redbud that grows in the woods, and at many nurseries, is a world of dwarfs, weepers and contorted versions that stay small and tend to grow much more slowly. These are well suited to the small garden but often more difficult to find.

‘Traveller’ is a weeping form from Texas and it only gets about 6 feet. ‘Little Woody’ (I didn’t name it!) is more of a shrub than a tree. It can easily fit into a tiny yard. Another weeping variety, ‘Lavender Twist’ is one of my favorites. The spread is narrow and pendulous so it doesn’t take up much space. If you can’t find these less common varieties locally they can be acquired through Forest Farm. Their catalog is available on-line. It is worth a peek as they have an extensive selection of plant material. ‘Ruby Falls’ has a deep burgundy leaf, is weeping and is one of the smallest varieties. It is available through Sooner Plant Farm, also on-line.

All the redbuds, from the full sized ones in the woods to the pendulous weepers will grow in full sun to part or dappled shade. Once established they are fairly drought tolerant which is great for the sandy soil we face along the shore. I do have to add that the flowers are really not red. They are a deep pink. And they are blooming right in time to help paint the town.

ALY AND A.J.