PARK HILL, Okla. – Ruby Falls Redbud is gaining popularity among woody plants as an entirely new variety, displaying purple foliage on a small weeping form of this native understory tree.  A new and distinct cultivar, this attention-getting combo of features sets Ruby Falls apart from other existing cultivars of redbud tree.

Ruby Falls, an F2 hybrid, inherited its weeping form from one parent plant: the weeping green 'Covey' redbud (aka Lavender Twist), and its dark ruby-purple leaf color from another parent: 'Forest Pansy' redbud.  In combination, these traits set Ruby Falls apart as a new specimen form. 

Weeping, pendulous, cascading Ruby Falls Redbud exhibits a branching structure.  Zig-zaging branches form a cascading crown. The pendulous tree reaches a moderate height of 4 to 6 feet and a spread 6 to 8 feet.

Redbuds are true harbingers of spring. Ruby Falls blooms profusely in early spring when clusters of tiny hot pink rose-purple, pea-like flowers accentuate the bare, pendulous branches and mature trunks for two to three weeks (March-April) before the foliage emerges.  Flowers are attractive to pollinators and seed pods resembling snow peas appear in summer.

The rich, purple, heart-shaped leaves open bright ruby-purple in spring, then gradually mature to deep purple, and ultimately change to green as the season progresses. Fall color on this deciduous ornamental is yellow until leaf drop in early winter. 

Ruby Falls Redbud provides a pendulous waterfall of alluring color for garden and landscape and is perfectly suited to be a specimen or garden feature plant due to its eye-catching weeping form and large red foliage. Small gardens enjoy the elegance and small stature of Ruby Falls. The cultivar benefits from an exposure of part sun to shade and is easily grown in a range of well-drained soil types; do not overwater.  It is hardy in U.S.D.A. Zones 6 – 9.  Birds, butterflies and bees find Ruby Falls attractive and visit frequently.

For more information on Ruby Falls Redbud (PPAF) and other plant introductions by Garden Debut, visit GardenDebut.com.