Cercis canadensis var. texensis 'Traveller'

‘Traveller’ redbud is a woody, deciduous, perennial shrub or tree in the Fabaceae (bean) family that can grow 2 to 5 feet in height and 2 to 12 feet in width. It has a rounded, weeping form and medium growth rate. It was found as a seedling in a row of trees at Madrone Nursery, San Marcos, Texas. Its native habitat includes Texas, Oklahoma, and northern Mexico. The genus name Cercis comes from the Greek word kerkis which means weaver’s shuttle, referring to the seed pod’s resemblance to the size and shape of a weaver’s shuttle. The name redbud, not surprisingly, comes from the color of its buds. 

Plant ‘Traveller’ in full sun to partial shade in non-acidic soil with good drainage, moist, and occasionally dry. It is more drought and heat tolerant than other redbuds. However, it is not as cold resistant. 

The pea-like purple, showy flowers grow in clusters in spring and winter. The flowers provide nectar for bees, butterflies, and moths, and once pollinated form leguminous pods with seeds that are enjoyed by birds. The pods start out red and mature to brown being most noticeable when the leaves drop in the fall.  

Springtime is often a welcomed season, and this redbud, along with other varieties, will be among the first to bloom in your garden. But, spring is not the only season that will be enhanced by this specimen. Its form will add beauty to a winter garden. From its sturdy trunk, branches radiate in an outward and downward fashion, forming a beautiful arching form. It can be used in all types of landscapes including borders, naturalized areas, slopes, small spaces, and woodlands. It enhances cottage, and pollinator gardens and can be planted in mass to form a privacy screen. 

Insects, Diseases, and Other Plant Problems:  No significant problems.

VIDEO Created by Elizabeth Meyer for "Trees, Shrubs and Conifers" a plant identification course offered in partnership with Longwood Gardens.

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