Eastern redbud tolerates most soils and temperature ranges, including hot summers and cold winters. After flowering, it develops green pods filled with black seeds.

The redbud’s Latin name, Cercis, is equally pedestrian: it is taken from the Greek kerkis which means “a weaver’s shuttle” and refers to the shape of the tree’s seed pods.

R.O., Dallas The seedpods probably contain viable seeds, so I usually leave pods on the tree. I think the white variety that you have is a sport of Eastern redbud (Cercis canadensis). See my book ...

Each of the 2-4 inch long pods contain 4-12 flat, elliptical brown to black kidney-shaped seeds. There are many cultivars available, just double check cold hardiness.

The flowers are edible and can be fried, pickled or eaten raw. Bees also use the flowers as a nectar source. Several species of birds feed on redbud seeds, and white-tailed deer browse on the foliage.