(Cercis canadensis L.) Perennial. Zones 4 - 9. Eastern Redbud is a beautiful native tree species with a short, maroon-purple trunk and umbrella-shaped canopy that is smothered in a lavender-pink blossoms in early Spring. Eastern Redbud is easy to start from seed, and grows in the wild from the Eastern coast of Canada down to Texas. Redbud is happy as an understory tree in part shade; out in the open, in full sun, it will grow taller and bloom more prolifically. Its copious, tight clusters of fragrant flowers attract birds, bees, and butterflies. Leaves are glossy and heart shaped. Belonging to the pea and bean family, the flowers resemble pea blossoms, and both flowers and tender pods are edible - enjoy them, much like peas, steamed with butter and salt. As the pods mature, they become brown and papery, and the seeds can be collected in Fall before they drop. *Unique variety, seeds collected in zone 4, ensuring higher cold-hardiness* --------------------------------- Cold Hardiness: Zones 4 - 9 Edible: Yes Size: Large Tree 15-30 feet Growth Rate: Medium to Fast Nitrogen Fixer: No Native Plant: Yes Germination: 40-60 % Sun Requirements: Full Sun to Part Shade Soil Preference: Moist, well drained, deep sandy loam ---------------------------------- GROWING INSTRUCTIONS SEED PRETREATMENT: Soak seeds for 24 hours, start with boiling water. Mix seeds with a moistened grow medium equal to 3-4 times seed volume. Place in a plastic bag or container. STRATIFICATION: 90 days cold/moist (5°C). Place plastic bag with seeds and soil in your refrigerator, preferably in a veggie crisper. Inspect periodically for moisture and early germination POST-STRATIFICATION: Sow stratified seeds 1/4”. Seeds prefer soil temperatures between 15-21°C to germinate. Water evenly and regularly. GERMINATION: When all previously mentioned requirements are fulfilled, germination generally occurs in 20-30 days. How To Start Your Tree Seeds ---------------------------------- Available direct from Incredible Seeds, a Canadian Heirloom and Heritage Seed Company, offering only the best natural, non-GMO, open pollinated and untreated seeds, located in Mi'kma'ki / Nova Scotia.
