Cercis canadensis ‘Ace of Hearts’ – Ace of Hearts Redbud

Botanical Name: Cercis canadensis ‘Ace of Hearts’

The Ace of Hearts Redbud is a compact, dwarf cultivar of the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis). This smaller deciduous tree usually has a single trunk with a rounded or dome-shaped canopy, which needs little or no pruning maintenance. It grows to a height of 9-12 feet tall and 10-15 feet wide, making it versatile in its landscape uses.

The Ace of Hearts blooms for two to three weeks in March and April and puts on a beautiful display. The pink-purple, pea-shaped flowers grow in slightly bigger clusters than the species tree. Its gray bark is similar to that of the species. This tree differs from the species, however, with its unusual zig zag twigs that bear the flowers and its heart-shaped leaves.

The attractive leaves are slightly glossy and mature to a dark green color. They measure approximately 2.5 inches in width. The leaves turn yellow in fall, giving a nice display. The long seed pods found on the species tree rarely develop on this cultivar.

This Redbud cultivar is a useful tree in small landscapes. It works beautifully in containers or raised beds and close to patios and entrances to residences. Its upright frame contrasts and complements the Seiryu Laceleaf Japanese Maple or other weeping Laceleaf Japanese Maples – bringing a medium-textured foliage tree to a small garden or courtyard. It also works well in shrub planting beds, bringing seasonal interest and color.

The Ace of Hearts Redbud can be susceptible to Verticillium Wilt when the soil is too wet. Canker diseases can also be a problem.

Description

Height: 9-12 ft.
Width: 10-15 ft.
Shape: Rounded/Dome-shaped
Flower Color: Pink/Purple
Flowering Time: March-April
Fall Color: Yellow
Features: Showy spring flowers, heart-shaped leaves, attractive fall color
Exposure: Full Sun to Part Shade
Watering: Moderate & Regular
Soil: Prefers moderately rich, moist, and well-drained soil. Avoid wet or poorly drained soils.
Growth Rate: Medium
USDA Zones: 5-9
Uses: Shade tree, lawn tree, accent tree, shrub border, woodland landscapes
Similar Trees: Eastern Redbud (Cercis Canadensis), Forest Pansy Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’), The Rising Sun Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘JN2’), Appalachian Red Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘Appalachian Red’), Lavender Twist® Redbud (Cercis canadensis ‘Covey’) 

Additional information

Shape

Dome-shaped, Rounded

Flower Color

Pink, Purple

Flowering Time

April, March

Fall Color

Yellow

Growth Rate

Medium

Uses

Accent Tree, Lawn Tree, Shade Tree, Woodland Landscapes

USDA Zones

5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Mature Height

10'-15'

Mature Width

10'-15'

Exposure

Full Sun, Partial Shade

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