Redbud

Description: Redbuds are small leguminous trees that are among the first to bloom in the spring and also produce large numbers of multi-seeded pods in late summer. The saplings are pretty easy for me to recognize. I've watched them grow from my "Redbud Forrest." I've even named a few. The Redbud saplings are brown thin and zig-zag vertically (Turn Charlie Brown's shirt sideways). The tree typically matures to 25 ft, but less commonly can get to 40 ft. The trunk is narrow and can get to about 8 inches across. The tree's canopy is described as rounded by arborists. The leaves are pointy heart-shaped. The top of the leaf is a dull green, the bottom of the leaf is paler. The bark is dark brown and scaly.

In early spring the pink/purple flowers sprout directly from the stems. 5 uneven petals per flower. The flowers are one of the first signs of color in the spring. The tree also produces green pea-like pods in the early summer. The pods eventually turn tough and dark brown by the end of summer.

Edible Parts: Flowers and young green seed pods.

Notes: We typically have about twenty Redbud trees growing on our property at any time. We have a fairly damp valley and these trees produce 1000's of seeds that plant themselves. If a tree starts to grow in an agreeable spot I "leave" it be because they are really attractive in the spring. I have snacked on the mild-flavored flowers and seed pods with no objections. The flavor might remind one of eating pea pods out of the garden. The Redbud is related to garden peas, and other legumes. I'm thinking the seeds pods might complement a stir-fry.

Native Americans were reported to consume redbud flowers raw or boiled, and consume seeds after roasting in the seed pods. In addition to providing vitamins and other nutrients at a time of year when few vegetables are available.

The Redbud tree is also called the Judas Tree because legend tells that Judas Iscariot hung himself on a Eurasian relative, the Cercis siliquastrum. The white flowers of the Redbud turned red/purple from his blood and/or shame.

Contributor:

JRH