Quick answer: Western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) is native to 4 states. What's commonly sold under this name is the true wild species. No live listing of the true species was found as of 24 Oct 2026.
Photo: Stan Shebs, Wikimedia Commons (CC BY-SA 3.0)
Where it's native
Listed in the directory as native to these states. Click a state for its full native-plant guide.
Growing conditions
From the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center Native Plant Database.
| Sun | Sun, Part Shade |
|---|---|
| Water | Dry |
| Soil | Well-drained |
| Bloom | Bloom Feb-Apr |
| Height | 8-20 ft |
| Wildlife value | Early bees |
Buying it
No live listing of the true wild species was found as of 24 Oct 2026 — that means our last search didn't surface one, not that the plant is unavailable.
No live seed or plant listing found as of 24 Oct 2026. That means our last search didn't surface one — not that the plant is unavailable. Try a regional native-plant nursery.
Quick answers about Western redbud
Where is Western redbud native?
Western redbud (Cercis occidentalis) is native to Arizona, California, Nevada and Utah. Check your state's page in this directory for the full list of plants native where you live.
When does Western redbud bloom?
Western redbud blooms Feb-Apr. Exact timing shifts a few weeks with latitude and elevation.
What growing conditions does Western redbud need?
Light: Sun, Part Shade. Water: Dry. Soil: Well-drained. Mature height: 8-20 ft.
Is Western redbud good for pollinators and wildlife?
Yes. Wildlife value: Early bees.
Is Western redbud deer-resistant or drought-tolerant?
Western redbud is drought-tolerant.
Where can I buy Western redbud?
We haven't found an online listing of the true wild species as of 24 Oct 2026. A regional native-plant nursery or native seed company is your best source; ask for Cercis occidentalis by its scientific name.
Similar native plants
Native plants that share growing conditions or range with Western redbud.
- Brittlebush Encelia farinosa
- Chalk dudleya Dudleya pulverulenta
- Desert sand verbena Abronia villosa
- Blue palo verde Parkinsonia florida
- Firecracker penstemon Penstemon eatonii
- Lacy phacelia Phacelia tanacetifolia
Also listed under
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