Common name: Merlot Texas Redbud

Description: This outstanding Texas Redbud cultivar is prized for its glossy, thick leaves in a rich wine-red to burgundy colour that maintains its depth throughout the summer months. The foliage emerges with a vibrant purplish-red hue and features the characteristic heart-shaped leaves with a waxy texture that offers excellent heat and drought tolerance. In early spring, before the leaves appear, the branches become covered with abundant rosy-pink to magenta flowers. 'Merlot' has a more compact, dense growth habit than the species and develops attractive seed pods that persist into winter, adding further interest to the garden.

Other benefits: glossy burgundy foliage holds colour well in summer heat, attractive seed pods, disease resistant

Wildlife attraction: bees, butterflies, native pollinators

Height & spread (approx.) at 10 years: 3m x 2.5m

Position: full sun to light shade; tolerates heat well

Soil pH: adaptable to various soils including alkaline and limestone conditions

Moisture: excellent drought tolerance once established; requires well-drained soil

Winter hardiness: cold hardy to -18°C