Redbud, Oklahoma Sparkler, Bare Root

Redbud, Oklahoma Sparkler (Cercis canadensis var. texensis 'Oklahoma Sparkler')

Oklahoma Sparkler Redbud is a dazzling cultivar of the Texas Redbud a naturally compact, drought-tolerant variety of Eastern Redbud native to the southern plains. Selected for its glossy, thick, dark green leaves and intensely saturated pink-purple blooms, this small, ornamental tree shines from early spring through fall. Its rugged tolerance for heat, drought, and poor soils makes it a resilient performer in both urban and ecological landscapes, and a beautiful addition to food forests, native gardens, and pollinator plantings.

Key Characteristics

• Bright Spring Blooms Feed Early Pollinators
  In March to early April, before the foliage emerges, Oklahoma Sparkler explodes with dense clusters of vivid rosy-purple flowers directly on bare wood (cauliflory). These early blossoms provide essential nectar and pollen to native bees, bumblebees, and pollinating flies when few other plants are in bloom.
• Glossy, Thick Leaves for Summer Interest
  One of the most defining traits of Texas Redbuds is their shiny, leathery foliage, and Oklahoma Sparkler takes this to the next level. The dark green, heart-shaped leaves are highly glossy and thicker than standard redbuds, offering excellent resistance to heat, sunburn, and drought.
• Compact Size for Small Landscapes and Layers
  Maturing at just 12-18 feet, this cultivar is ideal for urban gardens, understory plantings, and orchard edges where space is limited but seasonal impact is desired. Its multi-season ornamental appeal makes it valuable in food forests and permaculture designs as part of the small tree or shrub layer.
• Drought-Tolerant and Soil Adaptable
  Bred from native Texas genetics, Oklahoma Sparkler excels in dry, rocky, or clay soils, especially in southern and central climates. Once established, it is highly drought tolerant and requires minimal maintenance.
• Edible Flowers and Pollinator Support
  Like all redbuds, the flowers are edible and can be used in spring salads or pickled. Beyond their culinary value, they support a range of pollinators and act as a host plant for native moths, including the Henry's Elfin butterfly (Callophrys henrici).

Product Details

• Native Range: Southern U.S. (Texas and Oklahoma); cultivar of Cercis canadensis var. texensis
• Plant Life Cycle: Deciduous small tree
• Sun Requirements: Full sun to part shade
• Soil Requirements: Medium-dry to medium
• Mature Height: 12-18 feet
• Bloom Time: March-April
• Bloom Color: Rosy-purple
• USDA Hardiness Zones: 6-9

Oklahoma Sparkler is a tough, beautiful redbud with all the native value and none of the fuss. Ideal for gardeners seeking spring blooms, summer resilience, and multi-season ecological function in compact, drought-prone landscapes.