ArborNote’s Tree of the Week is the Western Redbud (Cercis occidentalis). This small tree is found primarily in Northern California, with other populations in parts of Utah and Arizona. They grow near stream banks in dry foothills and lower canyon slopes below 3,600 ft. They grow singly and in shrubby clumps alongside California buckeye, ceanothus, manzanita, and other chaparral brush. It is noted for attracting birds and other wildlife. The leaves are harvested by native leafcutter bees and the flowers are an important nectar and pollen source for native insects and hummingbirds. It is easily recognized when it is in bloom from March to May, when it is covered with small pink to purple flowers. Indigenous Californians use the twigs of the western redbud to weave baskets, and even prune the shrub to encourage growth of new twigs!