This is a genus of about 10 species of deciduous trees and small shrubs. The name comes from the Greek work kerkis meaning "weaver's shuttle" but how that relates to redbud trees is a subject for further research.

The Eastern Redbud is commonly grown in home landscapes. They are valued for the interesting flowers which appear in early spring all along the stems. About the only downside is that these trees tend to be rather short-lived due to their susceptibility to canker diseases.