25-30' × same. Small vase-shaped multi-stemmed tree is highly ornamental with edible flowers and seeds.
In early spring, clusters of small brilliant purplish-pink pea-like flowers are so abundant they fill the entire tree, dotting the branches and even coming right out of the trunk. Flowers edible raw or cooked. Flat leguminous 2-3" pods have roastable edible seeds high in antioxidants. Nitrogen-fixing tree is also valuable as an early-season nectar plant for bees. Host to the Henry’s Elfin Butterfly.
Large heart-shaped leaves emerge opaque pink, mature to deep green and turn yellow in fall. Smooth dark bark becomes plated and brick-red with purple undertones. Sun or partial shade. Soil adaptable, tolerates clay and juglone from black walnut. Fine as a specimen tree or in groups.
Native to central and eastern U.S. and may not reach full maturity size in northern areas. Zone 4/5.
(1–3' bare-root plants)