Age

• In youth, redbud trees grow quite rapidly. However, like many other fast-maturing plants, redbuds have short lifespans. The functional lifespan for most trees is about 15 years. Trees 15 years of age and older usually succumb to some form of pest infestation or disease and die. They are particularly prone to heartwood rot, verticillium wilt and trunk canker. Redbuds continue to grow in height as they age. Although uncommon, a very old specimen of 30 years of age can reach 35 feet tall.
  
  

Site Selection

• Redbuds grow in U.S. Department of Agriculture hardiness zones 4 through 9. These adaptable trees are able to thrive in full or partial sunlight. Trees that receive full sunlight will produce more flowers than shaded trees; however trees grown in partial shade tend to grow slightly faster and taller. Redbud trees also tolerate a wide range of soil types, ranging from wet alluvial to dry ridge soil. For best results, plant trees in deep, moist, well-drained soils and provide irrigation during any extended long, hot spells.
  
  

Landscape Use

• Redbud trees add color and year-round interest to landscapes. They are primarily planted because of the ornamental value they provide. During early spring, trees bloom profusely, before leaves appear. During the summer, attractive heart-shaped foliage persists. In the fall, most trees will display showy and dramatic fall colors. In the winter following leaf drop, sculptural zigzag branch patterns and ornamental bark decorate the landscape. Given their ornamental aspects and low-growing form, redbud trees would be ideal street trees candidates -- if not for their short lifespan. These trees work particularly well in residential landscapes as a screen, background plant or specimen tree.
  
  

Alternate Trees

• Young redbud tree have a vaselike shape, while older trees have rounded, slightly irregular and leaning form. Its short functional lifespan and the less aesthetically-pleasing form that it takes with maturity ultimately limits the use of red buds, especially within non-residential settings. Possible alternative trees that have a similar small form, ornamental blooms and attractive bark include the Chinese fringetree, flowering dogwood, Kousa dogwood and the Persian ironwood tree.