A Comprehensive Guide to Growing and Caring for Oklahoma Redbud Trees
Oklahoma Redbuds are a beautiful addition to any garden, with their vibrant reddish-pink flowers and glossy, heart-shaped leaves. They are not only visually appealing but also drought-tolerant, making them suitable for xeriscaping.
But what sets the ‘Oklahoma’ cultivar apart from the rest? This guide will delve into the cultivation and history of this unique tree, its propagation, growing tips, pruning and maintenance, where to buy, managing pests and diseases, best uses, and a quick reference growing guide. Let’s explore why ‘Oklahoma’ is such a fantastic choice for your garden.
Cultivation and History
‘Oklahoma’ is a cultivar of the eastern redbud (C. canadensis), specifically the texensis variety. It was discovered in the Arbuckle Mountain range in Oklahoma in 1964 and introduced to the market by Warren & Son Nursery in Oklahoma City in 1965.
Compared to the species, ‘Oklahoma’ boasts deeper coloring, glossier leaves, more drought tolerance, and more flowers in a smaller package. It reaches about 18 feet tall and 20 feet wide, with a dense, rounded crown, making it a popular choice for gardeners.
Propagation
Propagation of ‘Oklahoma’ can be challenging, as it does not lend itself well to cuttings, layering, or grafting. Starting seeds is a more reliable method, involving collecting seeds from mature trees in the fall and undergoing a stratification process before planting. Alternatively, transplanting purchased saplings or bare roots is another option.
How to Grow
To ensure the successful growth of ‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds, plant them in well-draining soil with full sun exposure. It is adaptable to partial sun when young but requires more sunlight as it matures. Fertilize with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season and water deeply when the top layers of soil dry out.
Growing Tips:
– Plant in full sun
– Plant in well-draining soil
– Water when the top three to four inches of soil dry out
Pruning and Maintenance
‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds may appear gangly when young, requiring pruning to maintain their shape and remove low-growing branches or competing trunks. The tree is cauliflorous, bearing flowers on trunks or stems, making pruning easier as flowers grow on old wood. Prune during late winter while the tree is dormant to remove any diseased, dead, or damaged branches.
Where to Buy
‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds are readily available at local nurseries or online retailers like Fast Growing Trees, offering live trees with warranties. Purchase a healthy specimen to ensure successful growth in your garden.
Managing Pests and Disease
Deer, rabbits, leaf rollers, emerald ash borers, canker, and verticillium wilt are common pests and diseases that may affect ‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds. Identify and manage these issues promptly to ensure the health of your tree.
Best Uses
‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds are ideal as garden specimens, providing a focal point in your landscape. Pair them with other bloomers like bluebells, phlox, violets, and wood lilies to enhance the visual appeal of your garden.
Quick Reference Growing Guide
Plant Type: Deciduous, cauliflorous tree
Flower/Foliage Color: Purple-red/green
Native to: Oklahoma
Hardiness (USDA Zones): 6-9
Soil Type: Sandy, loamy
Bloom Time: Spring blooms/fall foliage
Exposure: Part to full sun
Time to Maturity: 10 years
Spacing: 10 feet
Height: Up to 25 feet
Spread: Up to 20 feet
Water Needs: Moderate to low
Maintenance: Low
Common Pests and Diseases: Emerald ash borers, deer, leaf rollers, rabbits; canker, verticillium wilt
Cultivar: Oklahoma
Conclusion
‘Oklahoma’ Redbuds are a fantastic choice for gardeners looking to add a unique and vibrant tree to their landscape. With their stunning flowers, glossy leaves, and drought tolerance, they are a valuable addition to any garden. By following the tips and guidelines provided in this comprehensive guide, you can ensure the successful growth and maintenance of your ‘Oklahoma’ Redbud tree. Share your experiences and plans for using this beautiful tree in the comments below!
