Product description
Are you struggling to make a small garden look attractive? The Cercis chinensis 'Avondale' will come to the rescue! This sensational small tree will bring a burst of colour and life into your garden. It can also be grown in a container, making it ideal for in-city patios, balconies and tiny spaces.
As the name suggests, the Chinese Redbud Tree has its heritage in China. It has earned an RHS Award of Garden Merit for its amazing changing colours. In spring, when other plants are still bare and dull, its branches are smothered in dense clusters of lilac-purple and deep magenta flowers, waking up your garden and attracting butterflies and birds. Rich green glossy foliage then emerges for the duration of the summer, turning to a buttery yellow in autumn before falling in the winter.
Cercis 'Avondale' has a small rounded habit and if left unpruned will grow into a small bushy tree with a height of 2.5m and a spread of 2.5m in a 20 year period. If pruned after flowering, the tree can be kept smaller while still retaining its rounded shape. The tree is very hardy and will tolerate most soil types. It does however, flourish best in moist, well-drained sites. To get the best display of colour, plant in a sunny spot.
Your tiny garden need not be dull! Cercis 'Avondale' is easy to grow, requires minimal maintenance and will instantly uplift the look with a splash of glorious pink.
Plant specs, care guide & tips
Key features
Specifications
When to plant
Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec |
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Planting and period of interest times are general guidelines and may vary based on your location and conditions. For best results, consult local gardening resources.
Instructions
Top Tip
Prune Cercis trees in late winter or early spring to maintain their shape and remove dead or damaged branches. Avoid heavy pruning, as the natural form of the tree is part of its charm. In spring, enjoy the stunning display of pink or purple blossoms that appear directly on the branches and trunk, adding a unique burst of colour to your garden.
How to Water
Water Cercis trees deeply after planting and regularly during the first year to help establish a robust root system. Once established, these trees are relatively drought-tolerant but will benefit from occasional deep watering during prolonged dry spells. Avoid overwatering, as excessive moisture can cause root rot. For best results, water in the morning or evening when temperatures are cooler to minimise evaporation.
How to Plant
To plant Cercis, select a sunny or partially shaded location with well-draining, fertile soil. Dig a hole twice the width of the root ball and slightly shallower than its depth, allowing the top of the root ball to sit level with the soil surface. Carefully place the tree in the hole, backfill with soil, and firm gently around the base. Water thoroughly to settle the soil and eliminate air pockets. Add a mulch layer around the base to retain moisture and suppress weeds, ensuring it is kept away from the trunk.