Redbud, Hearts of Gold

Hearts of Gold Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Hearts of Gold')

Hearts of Gold Redbud is a striking ornamental tree known for its vibrant golden foliage and delicate, rosy-pink blooms. This distinctive cultivar of the Eastern Redbud offers a unique display in the landscape, with brilliant heart-shaped leaves that emerge a rich, reddish-purple in early spring before turning a bright, cheerful gold. In early spring, even before the leaves appear, the branches are adorned with clusters of pink pea-like flowers, creating a stunning contrast against the golden backdrop as the season progresses. Hearts of Gold is compact and low-maintenance, making it an excellent choice for small gardens, patios, and as a focal point in larger landscapes.

Key Characteristics

• Brilliant Golden Foliage
  Hearts of Gold Redbud is known for its heart-shaped leaves that transition from a deep reddish-purple when they first emerge to a vibrant golden yellow. The foliage retains its rich color throughout the growing season, adding brightness and visual interest to the garden from spring through summer.

• Early Spring Blooms for Pollinators
  In March to April, Hearts of Gold Redbud produces clusters of small, rosy-pink flowers that bloom directly on the branches. These early blooms attract bees and other pollinators, providing a vital nectar source when few other plants are flowering, supporting early-season biodiversity in the garden.

• Compact, Ornamental Form
  With a mature height of 12-15 feet and a rounded, spreading habit, Hearts of Gold is perfect for smaller spaces or as a decorative specimen tree. Its compact size makes it an excellent choice for planting near patios, entryways, or as a focal point in a mixed border.

• Heat and Drought Tolerant
  This cultivar is not only beautiful but also resilient. Hearts of Gold is tolerant of heat and moderate drought once established, making it a low-maintenance addition to landscapes in a variety of climates. It thrives in well-drained soils and adapts well to both full sun and partial shade.

• Year-Round Interest
  In addition to its spring flowers and summer gold foliage, Hearts of Gold Redbud also offers interest in fall, when the leaves can turn soft shades of yellow before dropping. Its distinctive branching and smooth bark provide a pleasing winter silhouette, adding structure to the garden even in the colder months.

Product Details

• Native range: Eastern and Central North America (species origin)
• Plant life cycle: Perennial
• Sun requirements: Full sun to partial shade
• Soil requirements: Well-drained, medium
• Mature height: 12-15 feet
• Bloom time: March to April
• Bloom color: Rosy pink
• USDA Hardiness zones: 5-9

Hearts of Gold Redbud is a standout choice for gardeners looking to add a burst of color to their landscape with its golden foliage and early spring blooms. Its compact size, resilience, and ability to support pollinators make it an ideal addition to any garden or landscape design.