Flame Thrower® Redbud Tree

Flame Thrower® is an eastern redbud selected for foliage that changes from purple and red through bronze to yellow-green as new leaves mature. Its spring flowers open on bare branches, and its slight pendant growth still forms a non-weeping tree. The exact cultivar is 'NC2016-2'. [North Carolina State Extension](https://plants.ces.ncsu.edu/plants/cercis-canadensis-flame-thrower-nc2016-2/) describes it as a 15–20-foot tree with a 10–15-foot spread. ## Landscape Use Use it as a specimen, accent, or understory tree where its changing foliage can be seen through the growing season. Allow room for a broad crown and plant it away from pavement or walls that would crowd its branches. ## Growing Conditions Full sun to part shade suits this cultivar. It grows in average, moist, well-drained soil and tolerates a range of soil pH. Water regularly while the tree establishes; avoid persistently wet soil. The [JC Raulston Arboretum](https://jcra.ncsu.edu/horticulture/our-plants/results-by-name-serial-number.php?serial=131780) lists it hardy to USDA zone 5. ## Maintenance Choose the planting site carefully because established redbuds can be difficult to move. Prune only to remove damaged branches or improve structure, and do so after flowering when practical.