Name: Cercis canadensis 'Merlot' (Merlot Redbud)

Average Landscape Size: 12–15 ft tall × 10–12 ft wide; specimen tree with upright spreading habit

Sun Requirements: Full sun to partial sun; best foliage color in full sun

Water Needs: Moderate; drought tolerant once established, well-draining soil essential

Deer Resistance: Moderate

Cold Hardiness: USDA Zones 5–9; excellent cold tolerance, reliable in Willis conditions

Fertilization & Pruning: Light fertilizer in early spring; minimal pruning needed, shape after flowering

Detailed Description: This spectacular Merlot Redbud is absolutely stunning with those deep red-purple leaves that create incredible drama in your landscape all season long! At this impressive 15-gallon specimen size, you're getting instant mature tree presence with that gorgeous wine-colored foliage that makes everything else pop. The pink spring flowers against those dark leaves are absolutely breathtaking – it's like having a piece of fine art in your yard! Most homeowners love these at 12–15 feet tall with that beautiful spreading canopy that provides wonderful colored shade. Here in Willis, the deep foliage color holds beautifully even in our hot summers, and this beauty is perfectly adapted to our climate. This is your statement tree that creates year-round interest and makes your landscape absolutely unforgettable!

Created: September 18, 2025