Chinese redbud is a beautiful flowering plant that is native to China. It has a long history of cultivation and is widely planted in gardens and parks throughout East Asia. The flowers are produced in early spring before the leaves emerge and are borne in clusters of 3-5. They are reddish-purple in color and have a sweet fragrance. The plant is a member of the pea family and is closely related to the common redbud (Cercis canadensis).
Related plant:
Chinese Ixora
Related plant:
Chinese Holly
About soil condition, chinese redbud prefer well-drained, fertile soil, and can grow in both clay and sand. They are drought tolerant and should be watered deeply and regularly during the first growing season to establish a strong root system. Once established, they are relatively drought tolerant.
Not too different with other redbuds, the Chinese redbud needs full sun to partial shade to flower and grow properly. It does best in well-drained soil with a consistent moisture level. Drought and heat tolerant, it's a good choice for a low maintenance garden.
The temperature condition that the Chinese redbud can tolerate is -10 to -30 degree Celsius. This means that the plant can survive in very cold climates. The Chinese redbud is a very popular plant in China and is grown in many gardens.
Ideal humidity condition for this plant is 50-60%. They cannot tolerate high humidity or low humidity for long. If the humidity drops below 40%, the leaves will start to turn brown and curl. If the humidity is too high, the leaves will start to yellow.
Regarding fertilizer, this plant does best with light feedings of a balanced fertilizer throughout the growing season. Be sure to apply the fertilizer according to manufacturer's directions and never apply it to dry soil or near the plant's crown or roots. As for watering, the Chinese redbud prefers moist, well-drained soils and weekly watering during extended periods of drought. Water deeply and less often to encourage deep rooting.
Pruning Chinese redbud is essential to maintain its well-groomed appearance and encourage new growth. The best time to prune is in late winter or early spring before new growth appears. Begin by removing any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Next, thin out the canopy to allow more light and air to reach the interior of the plant. Finally, shape the plant by pruning any wayward branches.
Propagation of chinese redbud is typically done through rooting of stem cuttings. Cuttings should be taken from young, vigorously growing plants in late spring or early summer. The cuttings should be about 6 inches long and should include 2-3 buds. Cuttings can be planted immediately or stored in a cool, dark place until ready to plant.
Usually, the plant growth rate is between 6 and 12 inches per year. However, under the right conditions, some plants can experience a growth rate of up to 24 inches per year. The best way to ensure optimal growth is to plant the tree in well-draining, fertile soil and to provide adequate water and nutrients. Additionally, pruning can help encourage new growth and shape the tree to your desired appearance.
Common problems for this kind of plant are canker and twig dieback. Canker is a fungal disease that affects the bark and wood of the tree, causing it to decay. Twig dieback is caused by a combination of stress factors, including drought, root damage, and pests. Both of these problems can be controlled by proper tree care, including watering, pruning, and pest control.
Source:
Chinese redbud | UMD Arboretum & Botanical Garden
Eastern Redbud | University of Maryland Extension - UMD
The Right Redbud For You | BYGL - Ohio State University
