Eastern Redbud (Cercis Canadensis)

 

Interesting & key characteristics: 

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Height: It can grow up to 30 feet tall and 30 feet in spread

Leaves: Heart-shaped, dark green

Flowers: Purplish Pink in the spring

Fruit: The flat seed pods are fruit.

Bark: Reddish-brown to gray.

Habitat: It is found in every county of Missouri.

 

Source: Fifty Common Trees of Missouri, Department of Conservation, Show Me Trees

 

Unique benefits (how it helps our planet):

 

These trees provide food (seeds, leaves and nectar) for some animals and are great for landscaping. It moves wind up so it does not hit us which also keeps animals and wildlife warmer. Eastern Redbud leaves are sometimes used raw or pickled in salads; in Mexico, they are fried. 

 

The Story Behind the Tree:

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This type of tree was given to Forsyth fourth graders by the Missouri Department of Conservation on Arbor Day. Every single 4th Grader got a sapling to plant if they wanted to and Mrs. Torlina facilitated the distribution of the trees. After all students received trees, there was a leftover tree. Mrs. Torlina and Mrs. Bischoff (former Forsyth second grade teacher) planted one of these trees in the little kids playground.