Throwback Thursday – Redbud

I’m not sure why Cercis canadensis, Canada Redbud, is called Red since the flower and bud are decidedly pink.mauve/purplish to my eye. I know one of the common names for small trees in the genus Cercis is Judas Tree, named because in biblical times Judas hanged himself on a Cercis which, until then, had white flowers. Still. This is possibly my favourite spring blooming small tree, not just for the profusion of small flowers in May, but also for how they appear: up and down branches instead of on spurs or twig ends like other flowering trees.

Each Thursday this winter I’ll post an image or two taken last summer. I found that 2024 sped by so quickly and was filled with so many events, both happy and sad, that I feel I didn’t have time to simply enjoy it – especially the garden. And so I’d like, for just a few moments a week this winter, to pretend it’s still summer. To remember and re-live for an instant the sun’s warmth, the insect and birdsong, the heavy fragrances on humid, moist, slow moving air. Feel free to join me! I’m going to try to find photos I haven’t already shared, which may prove difficult, I know, and just write a line or two of explanation.