The Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) is a legume! Yes, it’s a member of the legume (Fabaceae) family. Unlike most members of the legume family, which are able to fix nitrogen through their roots into the soil, the Eastern Redbud doesn’t have this ability.

The seeds in the legume pods are a great source of food for many birds including, Cardinals, Rose-breasted Grosbeaks, and Bobwhites. Deer and Squirrels feed on the seeds as well.

Great seed pods, but they certainly don’t impress me nearly as much as the sweet cauliflorous pink (not red) Redbud blooms.

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