Cercis can. 'Merlot' - Redbud

‘Merlot’ does best in full sun to partial shade and will grow in any type of soil if it is well drained. This variety grows 9 to 12 feet tall and 10 to 15 feet wide. It has a low canopy, typically 1 foot above the ground, is vase-shaped with age, dense, and has a semi-upright habit. Left on its own, it will form a multi-trunked specimen. Selective pruning when young will allow for a more tree-like form and will also help to develop a strong branch structure.

It differs from other cultivars of the genus in that it tolerates heat and drought conditions. The smaller, rounded, glossy leaves assist it to hold water and reduce the rate of transpiration.