The Judas tree (Cercis siliquastrum) is 10–15 m tall tree native to the south of Europe and southwest Asia. It is found in Iberia, southern France, Italy, Bulgaria, Greece, and Asia Minor, and forms a low tree with a flat spreading head. Redbud is also known as Judas-tree.

Understanding the Context

According to legend, Judas Iscariot hanged himself from a branch of the European species Cercis siliquastrum (13). Eastern redbud is a strikingly conspicuous tree in the spring because it flowers before other tree leaves form. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a small, deciduous tree native to eastern North America. Admired for its striking early spring blossoms, heart-shaped foliage, and adaptability, this ornamental tree is a favorite in gardens, parks, and naturalized landscapes.

Key Insights

Cercis canadensis, commonly called eastern redbud, is a deciduous, often multi-trunked understory tree with a rounded crown that typically matures to 20-30’ tall with a slightly larger spread. Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a smallish flowering tree native to North America. Flowers bloom in spring before the foliage appears, and the tree is loved for its relatively long-lasting display of pink to purple color. Cercis species are unarmed, deciduous trees or shrubs. The leaves are simple, entire and may be heart-shaped or kidney-shaped; there is a long, distinct petiole.

Final Thoughts

The genus name Cercis comes from the Greek word kerkis, which means weaver's shuttle, referring to the fact that the seed pod resembles the size and shape of a weaver's shuttle used to move thread back and forth on a loom. The type of redbud that has been discussed thus far corresponds technically to Cercis canadensis var. canadensis. It is native to the eastern United States and is distinguished from other North American redbuds by its tapering-acute leaves that at maturity are thin and dull green on both surfaces.