One of our favorite things about springtime in New England is the flowering trees. They're reaching their peak right now and provide such a colorful reprieve from all the dreary days we suffered through this winter. There are many to choose from but today we're focusing on 3 in particular - the Eastern Redbud, the Common Flowering Dogwood and the Kwanzan Cherry.
The Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) typically prefers the southern states, but we're lucky enough to have a few around town and this year they are particularly beautiful. A deciduous tree that is part of the Legume family, Eastern Redbuds are known for their spectacular purple and pink clustered flowers.
The Common Flowering Dogwood (Cornus florida) is very popular in our area. A smaller tree, Flowering Dogwoods are between 15'-30' high at maturity. In our area they typically bloom in April and the 'flower' is actually made up of a cluster of small greenish flowers surrounded by white bracts. Some cultivars produce beautiful pink (or even red) bracts as seen below. Flowering Dogwoods prefer moist soil with a mix of sun and shade and are an important source of food for birds during late summer when they produce fruit clusters to distribute their seeds.
Last but not least is the stunning Kwanzan Cherry (Prunus serrulata). These small, spreading trees can grow as wide as they are tall and are easily recognized by their lush pink or white flowers. Kwanzan Cherries prefer full sun and well-drained soil, but they are very sensitive to pests, stress and pollution. The typical life span is only 15-20 years, but they're well worth it thanks to their beauty.
We have a Kwanzan Cherry in our yard dedicated to Khloe's memory and this year it's blooms are especially lovely!
