Cercis canadensis 'Forest Pansy'

Cercis canadensis ‘Forest Pansy’ is a fittingly beautiful name for my all-time favourite large shrub. A cousin of the Judas Tree (commonly planted on southern French highways), Forest Pansy also produces pink flowers in spring, from far back on into the bare branches. It is late into leaf, so partners spring-flowering bulbs well, then it opens large purple hearts that hold through the summer and turn fiery hues in October. Plant it in a sheltered, sunny spot, to the west of where you walk, for an autumnal spectacle akin to stained glass.