CULTURE REPORT Garden Cer Gems cis Collection Photos courtesy of Star Roses and Plants. A revolutionary new size for the beloved Eastern Redbud tree BY KRISTEN PULLEN W hat's better than a native tree that offers three seasons of garden interest? A native tree that offers three seasons of garden interest and fits on a patio! The Garden Gems Cercis Collection is the result of a partnership between Star Roses and Plants and the JC Raulston Arboretum at North Carolina State University. Bare root plants of 'Garden Gems Amethyst' and 'Garden Gems Emerald' were first received by Star in 2016. After extensive trials by both partners, it was clear that these plants were game changers for the cercis market. Maturing at about half the size of a typical cercis tree, Garden Gems lend themselves well to smaller containers and smaller garden spaces. This opens the ornamental tree market to growers who traditionally sell shrubs in 3- and 5-gallon programs. It also makes Garden Gems perfect candidates for deco and patio programs. Retailers have already taken notice of this breakthrough, awarding Garden Gems a Retailers Choice Award at the Cultivate tradeshow in 2023. Think of Garden Gems as an alternative for Japanese Maples; they have the similar foliage colors, the added benefit of spring blooms, they're North American natives, and they're faster and cheaper to finish for growers. 62 MAY 2024 GPNMAG.COM Amethyst is a compact tree great for small gardens and patio pots. Its burgundy foliage gives a similar effect to Japanese Maple, with cercis being native to North America. These compact trees are currently available in two foliage colors - Amethyst and Emerald - with additional colors and habit forms to be released in the coming years. Growing Garden Gems from bare root is not unlike growing other cercis varieties. We hope the tips outlined here will help you fall in love with these trees as much as we have.http://www.GPNMAG.COM