Eastern Redbud

This particular eastern redbud specimen (Cercis canadensis) is in my estimation the prettiest flowering tree in Portsmouth.  It's on the corner of State and Cabot Streets.  I first noticed it a few years ago when I lived on Union Street.  What struck me as especially remarkable about it is the fact that the flowers blossom along the main branches and not just at the twig end of stems as most tree flowers do.

The eastern redbud is a North American tree, native to the eastern part of the main continent.  It's nice to know that it's not exotic.  That makes it an excellent landscaping choice.

On this tree a couple of the main branches extend so far outward sideways that the homeowners use restraining cables for support.

It's a remarkable specimen and definitely worth visiting.  Ever since I first noticed it, I always try to make a point to visit it every spring and marvel at its beauty.  I have yet to encounter another specimen nearly as magnificent as this one.

Right now it's at a perfect blossoming stage.  Its branches show nothing but budding flowers which will soon be replaced by greening leaves.  It's almost perfectly magenta.  That will change or begin to change within about a week.