Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis)

Western Redbud is perhaps more ornamental than its eastern cousin, but it is harder to grow since it requires dry roots in summer. The leaves are bluish in the summer and the tree stays short, 12′. zone 6

Silver Cloud (Cercis canadensis 'Silver Cloud')

Although Silver Cloud is supposed to be one of the hardiest trees in the US, flourishing everywhere except the most upper midwest, it has to be one of the wimpiest. It has small variegated leaves and purple flowers and so is too cute, but be prepared to give this plant some sun protection. The picture shown is what you would actually get.

Oklahoma (Cercis reniformis 'Oklahoma')

Oklahoma Redbud not only puts on a stunning flower show in the spring, the summer leaves are large and glossy dark green. This is my favorite Redbud. zone 6

Lavendar Twist Weeping Redbud (Cercis canadensis 'Covey')

This weeping Redbud (which is pictured here in one of my 2 gallon smart pots in the winter) was found in western NY state. Like most weeping plants it gets only as tall as the stake you put it on, but will flare out and down from there. The flowers are a lavendar purple. Hardy to zones 5-8.

Forest Pansy (Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy')

Unlike many purple leafed trees, this one does not green out in the summer. The purple flowers are heavy in spring and the tree is very hardy to zone 5. What’s not to like? Well, here’s the problem: for no reason after maybe 10 years or sometimes less, the tree does not leaf out in the spring. Mine here seems to be fine going on 20 years, but I have heard lots of stories about cared for trees biting the dust.

Appalachian Red (Cercis canadensis 'Appalachian Red')

Appalachian Red as you might guess is the reddest of the Redbud flowers; With profuse flowering on a vigorous hardy tree, this one is a winner. The size shown is what you actually would get.