The winner of Chelsea Flower Show Plant of the Year 2021 is Cercis canadensis (Judas tree) ‘Eternal Flame’, so get the look by growing Cercis in your garden. Here are some top picks to inspire you…
Cercis x canadensis (Judas tree) ‘Eternal Flame’
The foliage of this variety transforms from glossy deep red to shades of orange and yellow, for a fiery spectacle. In mid-spring, pink flowers bloom along the stems. Happily grown in a container or in beds and borders, this hardy plant will add vibrancy to your garden.
- Flowers in spring and interesting foliage
- Fully hardy
- Grows up to 3m tall
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Full sun
- Exposed or sheltered
Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’
The heart-shaped leaves of this architectural shrub or small tree delivers plenty of colour. The deep red-purple leaves turn to orange, bronze and red-purple in autumn. Although it’s commonly grown for its foliage, the flowers that bloom in spring are bright and beautiful.
- Flowers in spring and interesting foliage
- Hardy
- Grows up to 8m tall
- Well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Exposed or sheltered
Cercis siliquastrum (Judas tree)
With pink flowers that bloom in spring that will attract plenty of pollinators, this is a lovely small tree to add to your garden. Also known as the love tree, it’s clear to see why with the broad heart-shaped leaves that turn bronze, green and yellow through the year.
- Flowers in spring and interesting foliage
- Hardy
- Grows up to 8m tall
- Well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Exposed or sheltered
Cercis chinensis (Chinese redbud)
Next is a compact shrub with dense branches, covered in glossy, leathery leaves that turn yellow in autumn. They don’t demand much but still have a big impact, so are a great addition for a low maintenance garden.
- Flowers in spring and interesting foliage
- Hardy
- Grows up to 4m tall
- Moist but well-drained soil
- Full sun or partial shade
- Sheltered
Or choose ‘Alley Cat’ which has fascinating leaves that are variegated with green and cream colouring. They look almost painted, and then turn yellow in autumn. This variety can grow up to 5m tall, adorned in pink flowers from March to April.
Get the look this year by growing Cercis in your garden. Not only will they add autumnal interest with the foliage, but spring blooms will add a burst of colour too.
David Domoney is a Chartered Horticulturalist, Broadcaster, and Author. David has worked with a number of the UK’s leading garden retailers as a plant buyer and strategic consultant. With more than 30 years experience, in horticulture, David is as passionate about plants now as he was when he bought his first plant at a village fete.
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