The Hearts A'Fire Redbud puts on a chromatic spectacle that justifies its dramatic name. In early spring, clusters of deep pink flowers blanket bare branches before a single leaf appears. But it's the foliage that makes this cultivar truly exceptional. Heart-shaped leaves emerge in a blazing kaleidoscope of burgundy-red, tangerine-orange, and gold, that is reminiscent of the colors and hues of lapping flames. While mature leaves eventually transition to reddish-green, the continuous flush of new growth throughout spring and summer keeps those fiery tones smoldering along the canopy edges, ensuring a nice slow burn. With a compact, upright habit reaching 10 to 15 feet tall and wide, Hearts A'Fire works beautifully as a specimen tree in smaller gardens, foundation plantings, or grouped for dramatic effect. The manageable size makes it an excellent choice for patios, entryways, or as an understory tree where its brilliant colors can shine against the dark greens of larger shade trees or evergreens. Pair it with hostas, ferns, or boxwood—plants that provide calming green counterpoints to frame all that fire. Hearts A'Fire was discovered and introduced by Ray and Cindy Jackson of Jackson Nursery in Belvidere, Tennessee, the same nursery that brought us The Rising Sun redbud. Officially designated as Cercis canadensis 'JN100' and introduced in 2024 through the Garden Debut collection, this cultivar represents the Jacksons' continued eye for exceptional redbud selections. As a native cultivar of Eastern Redbud, Hearts A'Fire delivers significant ecological value. The early spring flowers provide critical nectar for pollinators emerging from winter dormancy, including native bees—particularly the specialized southeastern blueberry bee (Habropoda laboriosa)—and early butterflies. This tree serves as a larval host plant for Henry's Elfin butterfly (Callophrys henrici) and at least 12 other species of Lepidoptera [1]. Hearts A'Fire thrives in well-drained soil rich in organic matter and adapts to full sun or partial shade, though afternoon shade is beneficial in hotter climates. Like most redbuds, it's tough once established but demands attention to proper site selection—avoid compacted soils and standing water. Apply 1-2 inches of organic mulch and provide consistent moisture during establishment.[1] https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cercis-canadensis/
