Phonetic Spelling:SER-sis kan-ah-DEN-sis
Genus:Cercis
Species:canadensis
Family:Fabaceae
Discovered in the wild in Oklahoma in 1964, the ‘Oklahoma’ redbud is an ideal small landscape tree for many gardens across Carolina. This variety showcases stunning royal purple, pea-like blossoms that bloom in early spring, preceding the appearance of its leaves. One of its most appealing features is the thick, glossy foliage that seems to be polished daily, capturing the attention of even those who typically overlook trees.
To cultivate the ‘Oklahoma’ redbud, plant it in well-drained soil and provide full sun or partial shade, watering it weekly. It’s important to avoid overly wet or poorly drained conditions. This tree is highly adaptable to Carolina landscapes and is often regarded as an essential small flowering tree. It thrives in lawns, woodland gardens, and naturalized settings. However, it does not transplant easily, so selecting the right location is crucial. Additionally, vegetative propagation can be challenging. Don’t miss the chance to impress your neighbors with this stunning tree.
There has been considerable discussion regarding the differences between Cercis canadensis var. mexicana and Cercis canadensis var. texensis, the latter previously classified as C. reniformis. Morphologically, these two varieties are quite similar, with distinctions often based on their geographic distribution. Typically, the leaf blade of C. canadensis var. mexicana features an undulating margin, while that of Cercis canadensis var. texensis is usually entire. However, the overlap in their geographic ranges complicates the taxonomic differentiation of these varieties, as noted by Fritsch et al. (2009).
In terms of pests and diseases, the tree may be affected by Japanese beetles, treehoppers, leafhoppers, caterpillars, borers, webworms, and scale. Canker poses a significant threat, while verticillium wilt, leaf spots, mildew, and blights occur less frequently. Additionally, deer can cause damage to this tree.
References:
Fritsch, P. W., Larson, K. W., & Schiller, A. M. 2009. Taxonomic implications of morphological variation in Cercis canadensis (Fabaceae) from Mexico and adjacent parts of Texas. Systematic Botany. 34: 510 – 520.
For more information on Cercis canadensis var. texensis, please refer to additional resources.
Cercis canadensis var. texensis 'Oklahoma' Feature Summary
Cercis canadensis var. texensis 'Oklahoma' Image Gallery
