The ‘Ruby Falls Redbud’ (Cercis canadensis ‘Ruby Falls’) is a captivating ornamental tree, celebrated for its distinctive weeping growth habit and striking foliage. This deciduous cultivar features cascading branches adorned with heart-shaped leaves that emerge a vibrant maroon-red in spring. As the season progresses, the leaves transition to deep purple and then to green in late summer, before offering golden-yellow hues in autumn. Before the leaves unfurl, dainty, hot pink, pea-like flowers emerge directly on the stems and branches, creating a stunning early spring display.
Planting and Site Selection
The health and vigor of a ‘Ruby Falls Redbud’ depend on proper site selection and planting. The tree thrives in full sun to partial shade; full sun promotes vibrant foliage color and abundant blooms. In hotter climates, afternoon shade can prevent scorching.
This redbud adapts to various soil conditions but performs best in moist, well-drained soil that is slightly acidic to slightly alkaline (pH 6.5-8.0). Well-drained loam or sandy soils are suitable; heavy clay soils benefit from organic matter to enhance drainage. When planting, dig a hole at least twice as wide as the root ball, ensuring the top of the root ball is level with or slightly above the surrounding soil grade. Backfill with native or amended soil, firming it to remove air pockets. Deep watering immediately after planting settles the soil around the roots.
Ongoing Care
Consistent moisture is necessary, especially during the tree’s establishment period. Newly planted ‘Ruby Falls Redbuds’ need deep watering about twice weekly for the first few months. Established trees are more drought-tolerant but benefit from weekly deep watering during dry spells. Avoid waterlogged conditions, which can lead to root rot. Use a “thumb test” to check soil moisture; water if the top few inches are dry.
A balanced, slow-release fertilizer applied in early spring supports healthy growth. Follow product label instructions. Apply a 2 to 3-inch layer of organic mulch around the base to retain soil moisture, suppress weeds, and regulate soil temperature. Keep mulch away from the trunk to prevent moisture buildup and disease.
Pruning Ruby Falls Redbud
Pruning maintains the ‘Ruby Falls Redbud’s’ distinctive weeping form and overall health. Prune in late winter or early spring before new growth, or immediately after spring blooms fade. Dormancy pruning minimizes sap loss and stress.
Remove dead, diseased, or damaged branches to promote air circulation and prevent issue spread. Address crossing or rubbing branches, which can create wounds. For weeping varieties, thin branches to enhance the elegant, cascading appearance. Remove any upward-growing branches to maintain the weeping form. Always make clean cuts to a bud, branch, or the main trunk, leaving a small stub of about half an inch.
Pest and Disease Management
‘Ruby Falls Redbud’ is resistant to many pests and diseases, though some issues may arise. Common fungal diseases include:
Canker: Sunken lesions on stems or trunks, often leading to branch dieback.
Verticillium wilt: Wilting and discolored leaves due to vascular blockage.
Leaf spot: Discolored marks on leaves, potentially leading to premature leaf drop.
Powdery mildew.
Good cultural practices are the primary defense. Proper watering, site selection with good drainage, and adequate air circulation through pruning reduce susceptibility. If cankers or diseased branches appear, prune them promptly into healthy wood, sterilizing tools between cuts to prevent spread. Common pests include aphids and scale insects, which feed on sap, causing distorted leaves or stunted growth. Aphids can be dislodged with a strong water stream; horticultural oils manage scale infestations.
Winter Protection
‘Ruby Falls Redbud’ is hardy in USDA Zones 5-9, tolerating a range of winter temperatures. In colder regions, preparation helps younger trees or those in marginal zones thrive. Ensure adequate moisture before the ground freezes in late fall for winter dormancy.
For newly planted or exposed trees, trunk wraps prevent sunscald or frost crack. Mulch around the base, extending to the drip line, insulates roots from temperature fluctuations and retains soil moisture during dry winter periods.