The Eastern redbud (cercis canadensis) is a species that goes virtually unnoticed most of the year. It is neither tall, thick, nor stately, and it lacks any particularly appealing texture in its bark. But for a few short weeks each spring, even before its own leaves appear and when most other floral displays in the Appalachian mountains are generally quite small and ground-hugging, the redbud assumes center stage with its beautiful feathery pastel blossoms. Its airy pink color contrasts pleasingly with the fresh green backdrop of early spring, almost shouting an announcement of a new season of life and promise; the little tree is well worthy of its all-too-brief role as featured star.

Redbuds are relatively common throughout the North Carolina mountains, and there is a profusion of shapely specimens in moist, partially shaded areas of Great Smoky Mountains National Park. These examples were photographed next to the Oconaluftee visitors' center, not far from the eastern (North Carolina) entrance to the park.