Cercis canadensis ‘Merlot’

Description

RProduct Name: Cercis canadensis ‘Merlot’

Common Name: Merlot Eastern Redbud

Botanical Family: Fabaceae

Origin: North America (cultivar developed in the United States)

Plant Type: Deciduous Ornamental Tree

Description

Cercis canadensis ‘Merlot’ is a compact, ornamental tree prized for its stunning deep purple foliage and profuse display of vibrant pink to magenta pea-like flowers. A hybrid between Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ and a Texas variety (Cercis texensis), ‘Merlot’ offers enhanced heat and drought tolerance, making it a robust performer in a wide range of Australian climates.

Its upright form and medium growth habit make it an ideal feature tree for small gardens, courtyards, or urban landscapes. The heart-shaped leaves emerge in spring as a rich burgundy-purple and retain their coloration well into summer. Foliage may transition to a vibrant reddish-bronze in autumn, depending on climate conditions.

Specifications

• Height at Maturity: 3–4 metres

• Width at Maturity: 3–4 metres

• Growth Habit: Upright, vase-shaped; moderately fast-growing

• Foliage Colour: Deep burgundy to purple; holds colour through summer

• Flowering Period: Late winter to early spring

• Flower Colour: Rosy pink to magenta

• Fragrance: Mildly fragrant

• Deciduous: Yes

• Soil Requirements: Prefers well-drained, fertile soils; adaptable to clay, loam, or sandy types

• pH Range: Slightly acidic to neutral (6.0–7.5)

• Light Requirements: Full sun to part shade

• Water Requirements: Low to moderate once established

• Frost Tolerance: Moderate to high

• Drought Tolerance: High once established

• Maintenance Level: Low; benefits from formative pruning

Landscape Uses

• Feature or specimen tree

• Urban and courtyard gardens

• Mixed borders and shrubbery beds

• Small-space landscaping

• Wildlife-friendly gardens (attracts bees and butterflies)

Order online now or contact Blerick Tree Farm for expert advice on planting and care.