Description Family Fabaceae Originating from Eastern North America An eye-catching, weeping large shrub or small tree with heart-shaped, ruby-red leaves. Intensely deep cerise pink flowers smother bare branches in spring before foliage emerges. Tough and adaptable, it grows well in any soil in full sun. A compact deciduous gem, Cercis canadensis Ruby Falls, the Weeping Redbud, cascades with rare, dramatic flair. Its pendulous branches sweep downward, forming an elegant mound that transforms gardens from spring to autumn. Prized for its vivid colour, this cultivar dazzles in Suffolk and Norfolk’s sheltered corners. It reaches 2-3m tall and wide in 10-20 years, slender at first but widening with age. Amazingly, its branches grow in a fascinating zigzag pattern, bearing some of the cutest heart-shaped leaves of any species. Those ruby-red leaves hold their rich hue through summer, then shift to fiery orange and burgundy in autumn. Additionally this architectural spectacle is preceded by an early spring flush of pink blooms, studding the bare frame like jewels before the foliage unfurls. The Eastern Redbud is perfect for small spaces; it thrives in sunny, protected spots away from harsh winds. Care Tips for Cercis canadensis Ruby Falls Soil & Sun: Grows well in any soil; full sun for best colour, tolerates light shade Planting: Space to honour its weeping spread—shelter from strong winds is key Watering: Steady moisture while young, then drought-tolerant once established Pruning: Minimal—trim in late winter to shape or lift the canopy to reveal its shapely trunk, creating an architectural dome-shaped crown. Graceful yet bold, Cercis canadensis Ruby Falls, the Weeping Redbud, blends rarity with endearing charm—a standout for gardeners seeking elegance in Norfolk and Suffolk’s sunny, sheltered landscapes. It warrants a ‘star of the show’ position, bringing two fabulous displays: its intense blooms herald spring, followed by its uniquely rich, deeply coloured foliage. Its weeping form and vibrant shifts suit modern courtyards or classic borders alike. Planting suggestions for the Weeping Redbud. The outstanding colour of this variety sets up some dazzling colour combinations. In our display gardens at Urban Jungle’s Beccles branch in Suffolk we teamed it with Agapanthus ‘Midnight Star’ resulting in a rich tapestry. We could have used Agapanthus ‘Twister’ or Agapanthus ‘Queen Mum’ creating an even louder contrast, with those varieties’ white hues. The intricate detail of this variety is best appreciated where it can be viewed close-up. It grows well in large pots or containers, so is perfect for patio display. Alternatively, if planted in the ground it could be placed close to paths or sitting areas where the amazing translucent emerging foliage can be enjoyed. Plant it amongst rounded evergreen species to highlight its amazing branching pattern in winter, such as Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Beach Ball’. Additionally, Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Silver Ball’ and Pittosporum tenuifolium ‘Elizabeth’ will create bright contrasts with it in summer. For a fascinating read about the species Cercis canadensis and its cultivars go to https://www.treesandshrubsonline.org/articles/cercis/cercis-canadensis/
