CERCIS occidentalis: Western Redbud Tree

These TINY SEED PODS are a sure sign this tree is in the legume family (Fabaceae), along with a variety of other native US trees.  
This Western Red Bud tree is found in the American Southwest from California, to Utah & Arizona.  I have only seen a grouping planted in our city park, here in Southern California.  I think they might prefer the forests of Northern California..

The Spring is when they are most easily recognized because this small tree is covered with small pink or purple flowers, before the leaves appear.  Later there are shiny, heart shaped leaves, to create a lovely drought tolerant ornamental for a garden or a park.  The shade of taller trees is preferred. 

It's cousin, CERCIS canadensis, the Eastern Redbud, is more well know, maybe because it is native to vast areas of eastern North America,
even into southern Michigan.  It is often seen  blooming in forests before the other trees leaf out.

The REDBUD TREE is a favorite of mine.  We planted several under oak trees in our front garden in Michigan.  We even planted a weeping
RED BUD, with a red bench nearby.  When the TINY purple flowers appeared, it was a sure sign the snow would melt soon.  

When the TINY SEED PODS appear here, in California, it means 
Summer is passed & Autumn has arrived..