Eastern Redbud in bloom is a magical sight. It is a small, native, spring flowering tree, blooming before leaf out. Small, pinkish-red, pea-like flowers cover the branches. Though it is in the Fabaceae family it does not fix nitrogen. The flower buds, flowers, young leaves and young pods are all edible, making it an excellent food bearing tree. Redbud does well in partial shade. Self fertile. Has coppicing potential.