Merlot Redbud
An Easy Care Tree for Small Yards in Zones 6-9
Merlot Redbud (Cercis ‘Merlot’) is a compact, spring-flowering tree with deep burgundy leaves.
Merlot Redbud (Cercis ‘Merlot’) has glossy, deep burgundy leaves and a dense, compact, low-branching shape.
How do I care for Merlot Redbud?
When it comes to adding beauty and elegance to your garden, few trees can match the charm of the Merlot redbud (Cercis 'Merlot'). With its stunning burgundy foliage, delicate pink spring flowers, and graceful branching structure, this small ornamental tree is a showstopper in any landscape.
Merlot redbud is a hybrid cultivar of the ‘Forest Pansy’ and ‘Texas White’ redbuds. In spring, purple-pink flowers appear before the leaves open up, attracting pollinators and bringing a splash of color to the early spring landscape. Flowers are followed by thick, heart-shaped, deep burgundy leaves and elongated seed pods dangling from the branches. The Merlot redbud has far fewer seedpods than other redbud cultivars, and turns shades of yellow in the fall.
Plant Merlot redbud in full sun to partial shade, in zones 6-9. These trees will reach a mature height of 9-12 feet tall and 12-15 feet wide. Choose a location in your garden that receives at least 6 hours of direct sunlight per day. Ensure the soil is well-drained, as overly wet or waterlogged soil can cause root rot. Merlot redbuds stand up to heat and drought better than other redbud cultivars. As with all newly planted trees, be sure to monitor soil moisture and water regularly for the first two years after planting - learn more here.
Fertilize Merlot redbud with a layer of compost or leaf mold in the spring, and avoid placing mulch against the tree trunk. Prune away any dead branches as needed. Redbuds are prone to canker, leaf spots, and verticillium wilt and insect pests such as scale, leafhoppers and Japanese beetles.
Merlot Redbud stands up to heat and drought better than other redbud cultivars.
The purple-pink flower buds of the Redbud tree appear before the leaves open up.
Landscaping Ideas for Merlot Redbud:
Plant Merlot redbud as an accent or single specimen tree, in a place where the spring flowers and deep burgundy leaves can be appreciated. The small size and upright vase-shape makes Merlot redbud the perfect addition to any mixed border or mixed privacy screen. Plant at the edge of a woodland or in a pollinator garden. Use the dark burgundy leaves of Merlot redbud as a backdrop for brightly colored shrubs and perennials. Plant along the edges of the landscape to make unwanted views of sheds, fences, and trash cans recede into the background.
What are good planting companions for Merlot Redbud?
For a romantic, colorful look in the landscape, plant Merlot redbud with masses of pink ground cover roses (like Rosa ‘Meifranjin’ Blushing Drift®) and nepeta. For larger yards and landscapes, make a bold statement and mass Merlot redbud with other spring-blooming trees like serviceberries (Amelanchier spp.), Little Girl magnolias, and Okame cherry trees.
For an easy, low-maintenance garden bed, underplant Merlot redbud with creeping lilyturf (Liriope spicata) and astilbes. This is a very low-branching tree, so be sure to space companion plants at least 2 feet from the trunk. Do not plant Merlot redbuds too close to walkways, seating areas, or foundations, or you may find yourself squeezed out over time as the tree grows. Plan for the mature size of 9-12’ high and 12-15’ wide, and your future self will thank you!
How often should I water my Merlot redbud?
Proper watering is essential to keep your tree healthy. Merlot redbuds will need supplemental watering during the first two years after planting, and during times of drought. But wait, isn’t Merlot redbud drought resistant? Yes, to an extent - it stands up to heat and drought better than other types of redbuds, but that does not mean it’s okay to forgo watering and ignore your tree. You paid lots of money for this tree, and you want it to thrive - not merely survive.
The watering requirements for a tree can vary significantly depending on several factors, and there is no one-size-fits-all prescription. This absence of a universal watering guideline can be exasperating for gardeners! Being attentive to your trees and the environmental factors that impact them will enable you to adjust your watering schedule accordingly, ultimately promoting healthier growth and overall success. Planting a tree is an investment - learn how to protect your investment with proper watering and read “How to Water a Tree”.
Does the Merlot Redbud Tree Need Pruning?
Merlot redbuds are small, compact trees that do not need regular pruning. Prune out dead or crossed branches as needed. After 3-5 years, an occasional pruning may be beneficial to shape the tree and encourage proper air circulation - enlist the help of a skilled arborist if needed.
Prune your redbud when the tree is dormant, during late winter to early spring. This minimizes stress on the tree and reduces the risk of disease. Use sharp and clean pruning tools to make precise cuts. Pruning shears are suitable for small branches, while loppers or a pruning saw may be necessary for larger branches.
Remove any dead, diseased, or damaged branches. Look for branches that cross each other or grow inward, and cut these off as well. Crossed branches can rub together on windy days, scraping off the bark and making the tree vulnerable to disease.
If you're uncertain where to prune your tree, or you are dealing with larger branches, it's a good idea to consult with a local skilled arborist for guidance.