Ace of Hearts Redbud

Good things come in small packages, and the Ace of Hearts redbud proves it. This diminutive charmer tops out at a tidy 12 feet tall by 10-15 feet wide, making it the perfect redbud for smaller gardens where the standard 20-30 foot species would overwhelm the space. What sets this cultivar apart isn't just its compact stature—it's the remarkably dense, dome-shaped canopy that forms naturally without any pruning, and the small, semi-glossy heart-shaped leaves that stack along zigzag stems in an almost playing-card arrangement. In early spring, masses of reddish-purple flowers cover the bare branches for 2-3 weeks, creating a stunning display before the foliage emerges. The leaves, which are noticeably smaller than the species (around 2.6" long by 2.5" wide), emerge with a purple-red tinge, transition to lustrous dark green through summer, then finish the season with clear yellow fall color.

For landscape applications, Ace of Hearts excels where space is at a premium. Its compact form makes it ideal for foundation plantings, small garden beds, or as a specimen tree where the standard redbud would be too large. The dense branching structure provides excellent screening potential when planted in groupings, while the single-trunk form maintains a clean, architectural presence. Unlike many ornamental trees that require careful siting, this cultivar adapts well to full sun or partial shade and tolerates a range of soil conditions, though it performs best in well-drained sites with consistent moisture. It is suitable as an understory planting if it receives a few hours of direct light during the day.

As a native eastern redbud cultivar, Ace of Hearts provides significant ecological value. Cercis canadensis serves as a host plant for 24 species of Lepidoptera. The tree's early spring blooms are particularly important for pollinators emerging from winter dormancy.  The resulting seed pods also provide a food source for birds. An excellent choice for the gardener who wants an ornamental tree that also supports wildlife. 

General care for any tree or shrub is easy, but like any living thing will require your attention. Please educate yourself and follow these simple rules.

Ace of Hearts Redbud

Soil quality and how to plant the Ace of Hearts

The Ace of Hearts, like most redbud trees prefers consistently moist soil that is rich in organic matter, but can do well in a wide range of soils. Soil compaction will restrict growth and should be addressed by digging as large a hole as possible. We recommend a minimum of 3x3 ft. and digging at least 18 inches deep to break up the soil. Remove the grass, but retain as much of the original soil from the grass clumps as possible. A higher quality soil can be supplemented, but use no more than a 30% new to 70% original soil ratio. Too much new soil can cause water to pool in the hole, which will drown and kill the plant. With redbuds, mulching is extremely important (especially in the early years) as it suppresses grass and weeds, retains moisture, improves soil quality and reduces the chances of compaction from foot or mower traffic. For more specific details on how to plant see our guide.

When to fertilize the Ace of Hearts

The Ace of Hearts depends on new growth for it to maintain it's spectacular appearance, so fertilizer is recommended for optimal growth. A soil test is recommend for accurate fertilization, but a general NPK + micronutrients slow release fertilizer will cover the basis if a test is not performed. We recommend a 10-11 month slow release fertilizer be applied each year as a top dress in the mulch around the growing area. Apply this fertilizer prior to spring, so that the tree has access to nutrients in the spring and fall growing periods.

How and when to prune the Ace of Hearts

Pruning can be a challenge for new gardeners, so unless you are experienced, we recommend limiting pruning to a few branches each season. Pruning can be done during the winter months, but will rob you of the newest blooms. Pruning can also be done in late spring, after the blooms fade. Try to focus on branches that cross into the tree or create a steep V as these can create rubs, restrain growth on the central leader, and lead to breakage. Prune branches that are lower to the the ground to allow for space under the tree for mowing and and a more tree-like appearance. Most redbuds will grow shoots around the base of the tree, trim these back as low to the ground as possible each season. I've seen shoots grow almost to the size of a small tree within a few months, so get them as early as you can. When pruning take care to prune branches when they are as small as possible and take no more than 1/3 of the branches from a tree in one season.