Merlot™ Redbud Tree

Cercis canadensis ‘Merlot’ is a small ornamental redbud selected for glossy, dark purple foliage and a semi-upright form. Magenta-rose flowers appear in spring before the leaves, followed by foliage that shifts toward bronze-purple and then greener tones as the season progresses. ## Size and siting The [J. Frank Schmidt & Son nursery profile](https://jfschmidt.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/merlotredbud.pdf) lists a mature height of 18 feet and spread of 20 feet, matching the current catalog labels. [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cercis-merlot/common-name/merlot-redbud/) gives a smaller mature range of 9–12 feet tall by 10–15 feet wide and describes the plant as dense and semi-upright. These published size estimates differ; plan for a small tree with room for a broadening crown and allow local growing conditions to shape the final size. The cultivar was developed from ‘Texas White’ and ‘Forest Pansy’ redbuds. ## Growing conditions North Carolina State Extension recommends full sun to partial shade and well-drained soil, and lists zones 6–9. Selective early pruning can encourage a more tree-like structure; otherwise, the plant may develop multiple trunks. ## Maintenance Water during establishment and during extended dry periods, avoiding persistently wet soil. If a single-trunk form is desired, make selective structural cuts while the plant is young; preserve a balanced crown as it matures.