Cercis 'Merlot'

'Merlot' redbud is a deciduous shrub or small tree in the Fabaceae (bean) family that got its common name from the color of its foliage, similar to the wine of the same name. The genus name Cercis comes from the Greek word kerkis, which means weaver's shuttle, referring to the fact that the seed pod resembles the size and shape of a weaver's shuttle used to move thread back and forth on a loom. Developed by Dr. Dennis Werner in the Department of Horticulture Science at North Carolina State University in conjunction with JC Raulston Arboretum, 'Merlot' is a hybrid of the Cercis canadensis subsp. texensis 'Texas White' and C. canadensis 'Forest Pansy," which grew adjacent to each other in the landscape at NCSU. This breeding was an attempt to develop a purple-leafed form of redbud with smaller, glossy leaves and a semi-upright growth habit. Seed was collected in 1998, and in 2002 the seedlings flowered.  

‘Merlot’ does best in full sun to partial shade and will grow in any type of soil if it is well drained. This variety grows 9 to 12 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. It has a low canopy, typically 1 foot above the ground, is vase-shaped with age, dense, and has a semi-upright habit. Left on its own, it will form a multi-trunked specimen. Selective pruning when young will allow for a more tree-like form and will also help to develop a strong branch structure.

It differs from other cultivars of the genus in that it tolerates heat and drought conditions. The smaller, rounded, glossy leaves assist it to hold water and reduce the rate of transpiration.

Birds, bees and, butterflies flock to the springtime flowers making this small tree an excellent specimen in a pollinator garden, or understory tree in a wooded landscape.  Plant it in small groups for a dramatic effect in a cottage garden or as a patio planting. 

More information on Cercis canadensis

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  Although generally pest free, canker, dieback, mildew, blights, and verticillium wilt can occur. This tree can suffer from damage caused by deer.  The thin bark can be damaged by mowers and trimmers. 

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.