Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'
Forest Pansy Redbud
Species native to eastern North America; cultivar selected McMinnville, TennesseeOverview
Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy' is a small, spreading, deciduous tree reaching 20–30 feet (6–9 m) tall with a spread of 20–30 feet (6–9 m). This cultivar is grown for its dark reddish-purple to maroon foliage—the heart-shaped leaves emerge deep scarlet-purple, hold a dark purple-red through early summer, then gradually fade to green-purple to bronze-green by late summer in hot climates. In cooler climates, the purple color holds longer. Leaves are large, heart-shaped, 3–5 inches (8–13 cm) across, with a translucent quality when backlit. Small, pea-like, magenta-pink flowers 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) long emerge in dense clusters directly on the bare branches and trunk (cauliflorous) in March–April, before the leaves unfurl. The flower display lasts 2–3 weeks. The crown is broadly vase-shaped to spreading with a flat-topped silhouette. Bark is dark gray-brown, developing scaly ridges with age. Growth rate is moderate at 10–15 inches (25–38 cm) per year. 'Forest Pansy' is somewhat less cold-hardy than the green-leaved species; temperatures below −10°F (−23°C) cause dieback. The purple pigment provides less photosynthetic efficiency, resulting in slightly slower growth than green-leaved selections. Canker disease can cause branch dieback; good air circulation reduces risk.
Native Range
The species Cercis canadensis is native to eastern North America, from southern Ontario to northern Florida and west to Texas and Nebraska. It occurs as an understory tree in deciduous forests, along stream margins, and at woodland edges from lowland to 2,500 feet (750 m). 'Forest Pansy' was selected by Forest Nursery, McMinnville, Tennessee.Suggested Uses
Planted as a specimen, patio tree, or understory tree at 15–25 foot (4.5–7.5 m) spacing. The purple foliage and spring flower display make it effective near paths and seating areas. Functions in woodland edges and partially shaded borders where the backlit purple leaves glow. The flat-topped spreading crown provides light, dappled shade. Not suitable for exposed, cold sites or formal hedging. Grows in large containers of at least 15 gallons (57 L) for patios.How to Identify
Appearance
Size & Dimensions
Height20' - 30'
Width/Spread20' - 30'
Reaches mature size in approximately 15 years
Bloom Information
Small, pea-like, magenta-pink flowers 0.5 inch (1.3 cm) long emerge in dense clusters directly on the bare branches and trunk from March through April. Bloom duration is 2–3 weeks. The flowers appear before the leaves, creating a display on bare wood. Flat, bean-like seed pods 2–4 inches (5–10 cm) long develop in summer and persist into winter.Detailed Descriptions
Foliage Description
Dark reddish-purple to maroon (spring/early summer), fading to green-purple to bronze-green (late summer)Growing Conditions
Sun Requirements
Requires 4-10 hours of direct sunlight daily
• Full Sun: 6+ hours of direct sunlight
• Partial Shade: 3-6 hours of direct sunlight
• Full Shade: Less than 3 hours of direct sunlight
Care & Maintenance
Care Guide
Plant in moist, well-drained soil in full sun to partial shade. Full sun produces the deepest purple foliage color, but in hot climates (zones 7–9) afternoon shade prevents leaf scorch and helps maintain purple color longer into summer. Consistent moisture through summer is beneficial. Avoid heavy, wet soils that promote root rot. The species is shallow-rooted; do not cultivate around the base. Canker disease can cause branch dieback; maintain good air circulation. Less cold-hardy than the green-leaved species; protect from temperatures below −10°F (−23°C).Pruning
Prune in late winter after the coldest weather but before bloom. Remove dead, damaged, and crossing branches. Maintain a clear trunk to 4–6 feet (1.2–1.8 m) for pedestrian clearance. The naturally spreading form requires minimal shaping. Remove any green-leaved reverted shoots promptly.Pruning Schedule
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winterearly spring
Maintenance Level
lowContainer Growing
✓ Suitable for container growing
Minimum container size: 15 gallons