Cercis occidentalis  
This species is more familiar to gardeners as Western Redbud, and it is found throughout the southwestern United States among foothills and along rocky slopes. In early spring, when the Western Redbud's abundant clusters of magenta redflowers blanketed every bare branch. This fifteen foot deciduous tree is one of the most dazzling members of the pea family. Even when it is still tightly budded, this tree creates a showy display. Once its elegant blossoms are spent, lush heart-shaped foliage that is bright-green in color bursts forth and covers all its branches. 

Delicate, flat seedpods dangle in the soft spring and summer breezes.
Although similar in growth to the Eastern Redbud, it tends to be shrubbier in habit.
There are few diseases that attack this native, and once it is established, it tolerates
drought, wind, heat, and cold.

Family Name / Origin Leguminosae / California

Mature Height x Spread 15 to 20 ft. x 15 to 20 ft.

When and How to Plant:
Fall is the best time to plant a Western Redbud because that is the season for rapid root development; the second-best time is in the spring. Select 1- or 5-gallon container plants. If planting in a group, space 12 to 15 ft. apart; locate a single tree 10 ft. from structures or paved areas. 

Plan the location: 
Plan the location carefully, because Redbuds do not like to be transplanted. To encourage deep rooting, construct a watering basin with a diameter well beyond the tree's drip line and mulch its surface with 2 to 3 in. of organic material. 

Sun and Soil Preferences: 
Choose a full-sun site for maximum bloom production, although dappled shade will do. Western Redbuds need a porous soil with a neutral pH of 7.0.

Moisture Requirements:
Water infrequently but deeply.

Fertilizing: 
Winter is the time to fertilize with a complete food such as 6-10-4.

Pruning and Care: 
Do not deadhead. Western Redbud is most spectacular when grown as a multiple-trunk specimen. 

Pests and Diseases: 
Watch out for aphids during the spring months, and keep an eye out for chewing insects such as leaf hoppers, cicadas, and grasshoppers.