Russian Olive vs Eastern Redbud - TreeTime.ca

Russian Olive vs Eastern Redbud

Cercis canadensis

Elaeagnus angustifolia

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

COMING SOON

(new stock expected: fall of 2025)

Eastern Redbud
Russian Olive

The Eastern Redbud is known for the pea-like pink buds that emerge in clusters on the bark, embellishing the tree in stunning flowers. They have a longer bloom time, sometimes for two to three weeks before the heart-shaped leaves emerge for the summer. Inedible pods emerge that turn brown in the summer, this tree is a part of the bean family.

Native to the Eastern North America. The Eastern Redbud can tolerate acidic and alkaline soil. Plant this as a beautiful understory species or shaded residential yard or garden. The bright pop of color will make an attractive ornamental tree.

Russian Olive is a medium-sized deciduous tree that has attractive silvery coloured foliage with small yellow flowers that emit a fragrant sweet smell.

It is drought and salt tolerant, and works well as a shelterbelt species. Russian Olive can also be used to combat erosion.

Note: although Russian Olive is planted as an attractive boulevard tree in many northern areas, in warmer areas it can invade watersheds and is considered invasive. Please do some research and plant the right tree in the right place.

Eastern Redbud Quick Facts

Russian Olive Quick Facts

Zone: 4a
Zone: 2a
Height: 8 m (25 ft)
Height: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 9 m (30 ft)
Spread: 5 m (15 ft)
Light: partial shade, full sun
Light: full sun
Moisture: dry, normal
Moisture: dry, normal
Growth rate: medium
Growth rate: medium
Life span: long
Life span: medium
Suckering: high
Suckering: none


Foliage: silver scales
Flowers: rose-purple, pea-like
Flowers: yellow
Fruit: silver-yellow, olive-like
Seeds: pod-like
Hybrid: no
Hybrid: no
Catkins: no
Catkins: no


In row spacing: 1.8 - 2.4 m (6 - 8 ft)
Between row spacing: 5 m (16 ft)
Other Names: judas tree
Other Names: silver berry oleaster, wild olive