'Merlot' Redbud is a very exciting cross of 'Forest Pansy' and texensis 'Texas White', made by Dr. Dennis Werner of NCSU (he is clearly a very busy plantsman). The texensis genes enable Cercis x 'Merlot' to resist heat better, resulting in more lustrous, deeper purple foliage. The rose-purple flowers appear in April and May; finishing just as the leaves are emerging.

• Category: Woody Ornamentals
• Alternate Cultivar: Merlot
• Patent: PP22297
• Hardiness Zone: 6
• Height: 20 Feet
• Spread: 18 Feet
• Bloom Color: Purple