cercis occidentalis, western redbud

Found in the foothill woodland and chaparral communities on dry slopes and canyons. Shrub-like to 10 feet or tree-like to 20 feet. Some say this is one of California’s most attractive shrubs. The foliage is gray green heart-shaped leaves while the flowers are a mass of brilliant magenta color. Following the flowers are red-purple seed pods which look similar to pea pods. In fall the leaves turn yellow or red before falling. Drought tolerant and accepting of a variety of soils.