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Cercis chinensis

Chinese redbud

A densely branched shrub or small tree with erect shoots and rounded, glossy, leathery, rich green leaves, turning yellow in autumn. Bears clusters of deep pink to lavender-pink, pea-like flowers in early spring, before the leaves open

Synonyms
Cercis japonica
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Size
Ultimate height
2.5–4 metres
Time to ultimate height
10–20 years
Ultimate spread
2.5–4 metres
Growing conditions
Chalk
Clay
Loam
Sand
Moisture
Moist but well–drained
pH
Acid, Alkaline, Neutral
Colour & scent
StemFlowerFoliageFruit
Spring Pink Green
Summer Green
Autumn Yellow
Winter
Position
  • Full sun
  • Partial shade
Aspect

West–facing or South–facing

Exposure
Sheltered
Hardiness
H5
Botanical details
Family
Fabaceae
Native to GB / Ireland
No
Foliage
Deciduous
Habit
Bushy
Genus

Cercis are deciduous shrubs or small trees with heart-shaped leaves and clusters of bright pink pea-flowers opening before or with the leaves, followed by flattened, deep purple pods

Name status

Correct

Plant range
C China

How to grow

Cultivation

Grow in well-drained soil in sun or partial shade

Propagation

Propagate by seed sown in containers in a cold frame in autumn, or by semi-hardwood cuttings

Suggested planting locations and garden types
  • Cottage and informal garden
  • Low Maintenance
Pruning

Pruning group 1

Pests

May be susceptible to leafhoppers and scale insects

Diseases

May be susceptible to verticillium wilt, coral spot and honey fungus

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