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Flame Thrower Redbud Tree for Sale - Buying & Growing Guide
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Most people who are familiar with redbud trees know that these plants provide some of the most noteworthy early-spring flowers of any tree species. However, the cultivar called Flame Thrower® redbud tree, or Cercis canadensis ‘NC2016-2’, has an even more impressive color display that lasts all season. Most notably, the new foliage of this plant emerges with a dark purple color. Throughout the year, those leaves will transition to yellow hues before taking on a more typical green shade.
- Bright pink early-spring flowers.
- Foliage that changes color throughout the growing season.
- Adaptable to many settings and relatively easy to maintain.
Plant Care
Sunlight
This tree grows best in full to partial sunlight. About four to six hours of light per day is ideal.
Watering
Water your Flame ThrowerⓇ redbud tree about once per week during the growing season. Water more during hot spells.
Fertilizing
Fertilize your tree once in early spring with a balanced fertilizer mix or an organic material like compost.
Planting and Care
Planting instructions
When planting a Flame Thrower redbud tree, find a sunny location that receives a few hours of shade per day. The soil should be somewhat acidic and have a high volume of organic nutrients. Once you find such a location, dig a hole that is as deep as the root ball of the tree is tall. A correct depth allows the root flare of the tree to be slightly above the soil’s surface. The hole should also be at least twice as wide as the root ball to allow the roots to spread.
Watering and nutrients
Watering and fertilization for a Flame Thrower redbud tree are both quite straightforward. Generally, you should water this tree about once per week. Increase your watering frequency as needed when the weather is exceptionally hot or if you have planted your tree recently. Give your Flame Thrower redbud tree a balanced fertilizer at the beginning of the growing season. Manure, compost, and other organic materials will also be very beneficial for this tree’s growth. You should also ensure that the soil remains slightly acidic for the best results.
Pollination
As is the case for other redbud varieties, Flame Thrower redbud trees hold both male and female flowers, meaning that they are self-pollinating. During the early spring, these plants bloom before many other species in the area and are a convenient nectar source for pollinator insects that may otherwise find it difficult to find abundant food sources at that time of year. The Flame Thrower redbud tree can attract several types of insects, with several kinds of bees being the most prominent visitors.
Pruning
Without pruning, the branches of a Flame Thrower redbud tree can become incredibly dense. Allowing this tree to become overgrown detracts from its appearance and its health. Often, the ideal time to prune this tree is in spring, between the time when the flowers bloom and when the leaves arrive. When pruning, thin the canopy to allow for better air circulation. Also, consider removing branches that grow at a narrow angle from the trunk, as they are often weaker and prone to breakage. Encourage the tree to grow horizontal branches that are stronger and make for a better overall visual effect.
Pests, diseases, and animals
One of the greatest concerns for gardeners growing the Flame Thrower redbud tree is canker, a fungal infection that leaves noticeable black cracks on the bark that expand over time. When untreated, canker will spread and cause the death of many branches and leaves. If you notice this issue, it is best to apply a fungicide or prune out the affected area. However, canker is not the only issue to watch out for. Verticillium wilt can occur as well, and infestations of scale, mites, and treehoppers can take place too.
Achieving maximum results
If you notice that your Flame Thrower redbud tree has contracted a disease, it is often best to treat the problem during the winter, when the plant is dormant. During dormancy, apply any necessary fungicides or insecticides. You can also prune away diseased parts during this time, but bear in mind that you may risk removing some of the early-spring flower buds. Some wind protection is also wise for this tree to protect both the early flowers and any weak branches that could receive damage from early spring storms that come with harsh gusts.
FAQs
When was the Flame Thrower redbud tree cultivated?
The Flame Thrower redbud tree is a cultivated variety of the eastern redbud, Cercis canadensis, that is a new addition to the nursery trade. This variety first came into being at an arboretum at the North Carolina State University campus in 2020. At less than a few years old, this plant has yet to become widespread, but it is poised to become an incredibly popular ornamental variety for its flowers and its unique foliage colors.
How fast does a Flame Thrower redbud tree grow?
A mature Flame Thrower redbud tree should grow to be about 20 feet tall with a spread that has a similar dimension. This overall size is similar to most other redbud varieties that you'll find. As of this writing, the Flame Thrower redbud tree is extremely new, meaning that it is difficult to give an accurate account of its growth rate over its entire lifespan. However, it's likely that it will take a decade or more before this tree reaches its full size.
How long does it take for a redbud tree to begin blooming?
The early-spring blooms are one of the top reasons that gardeners choose to grow redbud trees as ornamental specimens. Usually, these trees begin blooming after about five years of life, but this timing can vary. Once a redbud reaches a flowering age, it will add vibrant petals to its bare branches early in the year, at a time when most other plants offer little to no appeal.
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Customer Reviews
So far, so good.It's going to be a beautiful tree in our garden of colored shrubs. Looking forward to its development.
Flame Thrower Redbud TreeExperience was good. The original tree was dead on arrival. But you folks immediately replaced it. The new tree arrived by Fed Ex yesterday. Somewhat traumatized by the 6 or 7 days in transit. I immediately planted it and have high hopes for it. Thank you. Yes, I would recommend you to others. RJC
Mature height |
15-20 ft. |
Mature width |
15-20 ft. |
Sunlight requirement |
Part Sun (4 hours minimum) or Full Sun |
Growth rate |
Moderate |
Botanical name |
Cercis canadensis 'NC2016-2' PPAF |
Shipping exclusions |
AZ,OR |
Grows Well In Zones |
5-9 |
Growing Zones: 5-9 i Growing zones help determine if a particular plant is likely to grow well in a location. It identifies the average annual minimum winter temperatures across the U.S. provided as a map by the USDA.
(hardy down to -10°F)- Ships in 1-2 days
- 1-Year Warranty Eligible
- Pots or accessories are not included unless specified in the product options.
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